In a stunning display of veteran prowess, Novak Djokovic delivered a masterclass performance to overcome reigning champion Jannik Sinner in a gripping five-set semifinal clash at the Australian Open. The 38-year-old Serbian legend battled for over four hours at Rod Laver Arena to secure a 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory that propels him into his eleventh Melbourne final.
The match represented a significant reversal of fortunes for Djokovic, who had suffered five consecutive defeats against the Italian world number two prior to this encounter. Displaying the mental fortitude that has defined his career, Djokovic overcame multiple break points in the decisive fifth set before finally breaking Sinner’s serve at 3-3. The tension reached its peak when Djokovic saved three additional break points in the subsequent service game, eventually holding with a crucial ace.
Djokovic acknowledged the match’s intensity in his on-court remarks, drawing parallels to his legendary six-hour final against Rafael Nadal in 2012. ‘The level of intensity and quality was high, and that was the only way to have a chance to win,’ he stated. ‘He had my mobile number, so I had to change my number tonight.’
The victory sets up a championship showdown against current world number one Carlos Alcaraz, who prevailed in the tournament’s longest semifinal against Alexander Zverev. Sunday’s final will see Djokovic pursuing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title and a record-extending 11th Australian Open championship, eighteen years after his first Melbourne triumph.
This remarkable achievement makes Djokovic the oldest male finalist in the professional era at the Australian Open, demonstrating his enduring dominance in the sport despite approaching his 39th birthday.