Novak Djokovic's retirement in the semi-final of the 2025 Australian Open has caused a lot of discussion among fans and insiders. After losing the first set to Alexander Zverev, the former world No.1 suddenly shook hands with his opponent and left the Rod Laver Arena receiving boos from the Australian crowd.
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The 24-time Grand Slam champion was very sad about what happened and raised both thumbs towards the crowd in a wry tone. The 37-year-old from Belgrade had suffered an injury to his left thigh during his match against Carlitos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals, but painkillers and his amazing mental strength had allowed him to prevail in four sets against the young Spaniard.
Corretja and Almagro on Djokovic
Former world number 2 Alex Corretja - at the microphones of Eurosport - had criticized Australian fans for booing the Serbian legend, but had pointed out a small mistake made by the latter when leaving the court.
According to the former Spanish ace, Nole should have picked up the microphone and explained to people the reason for his retirement.
"I would never have asked Zverev to take the microphone when he broke his ankle against Rafa Nadal at the 2022 French Open, but the pain felt by Novak was not perceptible to people," Corretja explained. "I didn't say that Nole had to justify himself for his retirement, but if he had explained in 30 seconds the reason for his decision he would have avoided those boos" - added Alex.
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Nicolas Almagro disagrees: "If I had been in his situation with everything he was feeling at the time I wouldn't have given any explanation to the crowd."
Corretja replied: "You are not Novak Djokovic, you are Nico Almagro and I am Alex Corretja."
During the AO, the Serbian champion suffered a tear in his left thigh that could keep him out for a couple of months. Djokovic will not be able to help Serbia in the Davis Cup and the next tournaments are also in strong doubt.
