Novak Djokovic delivered an impressive performance as he overcame a thigh injury to outmaneuver Carlos Alcaraz, securing a victory with scores of 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Australian Open. Nevertheless, American tennis icon John McEnroe expressed skepticism regarding Djokovic's injury during the initial two sets, which led to speculation, particularly after Alcaraz made a vague comment during the post-match press conference.

In the first set, following a slow start, Alcaraz managed to break back, while Djokovic began to exhibit signs of difficulty. He appeared to struggle with his movement on the court and requested a medical timeout when trailing 4-5 in the first set. The discomfort persisted into the early part of the second set, but Djokovic ultimately dispelled any doubts by staging a comeback against Alcaraz.

At the onset of Djokovic's injury concerns, McEnroe remarked on air that he was not entirely convinced, suggesting that the injury might not be authentic, and cautioned Alcaraz not to be "fooled" by Djokovic's actions.

"This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this routine," stated the seven-time Grand Slam champion, advising Alcaraz: "Don’t be fooled."

Although Djokovic dropped the first set after the match resumed following the injury break, he quickly established a 3-0 lead in the second set and finished it decisively to equalize the match.

Once Djokovic leveled the score, Patrick McEnroe inquired of his brother during the commentary, "Did you see this coming?" to which John responded affirmatively, "Yes."

It was not only John McEnroe who questioned the authenticity of Djokovic's injury. Veteran Indian tennis player Purav Raja also voiced similar doubts during the post-match analysis on Sony Sports Network, challenging Djokovic's claim that the medication he received during the timeout "kicked in after 20, 30 minutes." Raja added, "All I can say is that Alcaraz is definitely not happy with that. Well, especially after he lost that third set."

Alcaraz weighs in on Djokovic's injury

The 21-year-old was questioned during the post-match press conference regarding the disparity in Djokovic's performance during the first two sets compared to the final two. Although he did not explicitly align his comments with those of McEnroe, he acknowledged that the noticeable difference in Djokovic's level of play before and after the medical timeout was evident to all.

"I believe everyone noticed that in the second set he was having some difficulty with his movement," Alcaraz stated.

"I cannot specify whether it was more about moving towards the forehand or the backhand, but it was clear that he was facing challenges. However, in the third and fourth sets, I did not observe any issues from him. I am not suggesting that he was putting on an act.

"What I am saying is that it was apparent, and everyone could see that he was struggling in the second set. Then, in the third and fourth sets, he demonstrated his exceptional skills."

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