Melbourne witnessed a day of dramatic developments at the Australian Open quarterfinals where fortune favored the experienced while emerging stars demonstrated championship form. Novak Djokovic’s path to the semifinals took an unexpected turn when his opponent, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti, retired due to injury while leading 6-4, 6-3, 1-3 on Rod Laver Arena.
The Serbian champion, pursuing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title, acknowledged his extraordinary luck in advancing without completing the match. ‘I feel really sorry for him—he was the far better player,’ Djokovic confessed. ‘I was on my way home tonight. He should have been the winner today, no doubt. I am extremely lucky to get through this one.’
Meanwhile, in the women’s draw, commanding performances defined the day. Jessica Pegula delivered a masterclass against compatriot Amanda Anisimova, securing a 6-2, 7-6(7/1) victory in an all-American encounter. The sixth seed has yet to drop a set throughout the tournament, demonstrating remarkable consistency as she pursues her first major title at age 31.
Elena Rybakina produced the day’s most impressive upset, dismantling world number two Iga Swiatek 7-5, 6-1. The 2022 Wimbledon champion displayed composed dominance against the Polish star, who was seeking to complete her career Grand Slam. Rybakina attributed her success to evolved mental fortitude: ‘Now I feel like I’m just doing my job, trying to improve each day. So it’s kind of another day, another match.’
The tournament now sets compelling semifinal matchups. Djokovic awaits the winner between Jannik Sinner and Ben Shelton, while Pegula and Rybakina prepare for their seventh career meeting, currently tied at three victories each. In the other women’s semifinal, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka will face Ukrainian twelfth seed Elina Svitolina.