Novak Djokovic left both Alexander Zverev and the audience at Rod Laver Arena in disbelief as he retired from his semi-final match at the Australian Open 2025 in Melbourne on Friday. The former World No. 1 lost the first set with a score of 6(5)-7(7) and subsequently withdrew due to a 'muscle tear.' Following the conclusion of the first set, Zverev and the crowd were taken aback as Djokovic exited the locker room, prompting boos from the spectators, to which he responded with a thumbs-up gesture.

During his courtside interview, Zverev felt compelled to calm the audience, urging them not to boo a tennis legend like Djokovic. The Serbian had sustained an injury to his left leg during his quarter-final victory over Alcaraz, but some, including John McEnroe, accused him of feigning injury to gain a tactical advantage over his opponents.

Novak Djokovic to retire?

During the post-match press conference, Djokovic disclosed that he is experiencing a 'muscle tear' which prompted his withdrawal after the first set. "Indeed, I did everything within my power to manage the muscle tear I sustained. Yes, medications, along with the strap and assistance from the physiotherapist, provided some relief today. However, as the first set progressed, the pain intensified significantly. It became too much for me to endure at that moment," he stated.

"It is an unfortunate conclusion, but I made an effort," he added.

The record 10-time Australian Open champion is now 37 years old and stands as the last remaining member of the Big Three, following Rafael Nadal's retirement last year. Additionally, his long-time rival Andy Murray has also retired after the Paris Olympics 2024 and is now part of Djokovic's coaching team. When questioned about whether this would be his final Grand Slam appearance in Melbourne, Djokovic offered a vague response, suggesting the possibility of retirement at the end of the 2025 season.

"I cannot say for certain. There is a possibility. Who knows? I will need to evaluate how the season unfolds. I wish to continue playing. However, I am uncertain if I will have a modified schedule for the upcoming year," he remarked.

"I typically enjoy coming to Australia to compete. This is where I have achieved the most success in my career. I feel fit, healthy, and motivated. I see no reason why I would not return.

"Yet, there is always a possibility," he added.

Zverev, a two-time Grand Slam finalist and the current World No. 2, is set to face the winner of the other semi-final match between Jannik Sinner and Ben Shelton.

Read Also: Zverev Reacts to Djokovic's Australian Open Retirement: 'Please Don't Boo'

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!