Don't boo him: World no. 2 Zverev defends 37-year-old Djokovic for retiring after Australian Open incident

Alex Zverev vs Novak Djokovic ended with the latter retiring.

Don't boo him: World no. 2 Zverev defends 37-year-old Djokovic for retiring after Australian Open incident

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:40 - 24.01.2025

Alex Zverev advanced to the final of the Australian Open after Novak Djokovic retired from their semifinal clash.

German star Alex Zverev has come to the defence of Novak Djokovic after the Serbian star faced boos from fans following his retirement during their Australian Open semifinal match.

Djokovic, who lost 7-6 in the first set, had to withdraw due to a leg injury, which he had been managing since his quarter-final victory over Carlos Alcaraz.

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As he exited the court, a section of the crowd expressed their disappointment by booing him, prompting Zverev to urge fans to show respect for a player who has dedicated two decades to the sport.

In a post-match interview, Zverev stated, “Please guys don’t boo a player when he goes out with an injury. I know everyone paid for tickets... but Novak has given everything of his life to the sport the last 20 years”.

Alex Zverev has called for fans to respect legend Novak Djokovic.
Alex Zverev has called for fans to respect legend Novak Djokovic.

He emphasised Djokovic's resilience, recalling instances where Djokovic had triumphed despite significant injuries in previous tournaments.

Zverev added that it was crucial for fans to understand the physical toll on players and to show compassion when they are unable to continue.

Djokovic pulled out after a bad injury.
Djokovic pulled out after a bad injury.

Djokovic's retirement was a significant moment in his career as he was aiming for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.

Despite his exit, he expressed intentions to return next year if he is "fit, healthy and motivated" 1. Zverev now advances to the final, where he will compete for his first title in Melbourne against world number one Jannik Sinner.

Zverev speaking to the fans moments after the game.

The best Tennis player and number one ranked star in the Australia Open set up the pulsating final on Sunday after a 3-0 win against Ben Shelton in the other semifinal clash.

Sinner, who is the defending champion, delivered a ruthless performance against his American rival following a straight set 7-6(2) 6-2 6-2 victory in Melborne.

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