Novak Djokovic is suffering with his performance after his exit from the Australian Open. He mourns recordings and series.
Six years ago, the sensation was even greater: Hyun Chung, then ranked 58th in the world, threw Novak Djokovic out of his living room in Australia in the round of 16 thanks to a strong performance in three sets.
Since then, the record champion from Melbourne (10 titles) racked up 33 wins on the Yarra River before suffering another blow. Jannik Sinner (ATP 4) beat Djokovic in the semifinals on Friday and ended his impressive run.
legend:
Big disappointment
Defending champion Novak Djokovic says goodbye to Melbourne.
Keystone/EPA/James Ross
“That was one of the worst Grand Slam matches I've ever played,” said the 36-year-old, who was not feeling himself throughout the tournament. In the semi-finals, he was “shocked by my level.” But Djokovic also clearly emphasized: “The sinner deserves this victory. He played me completely.”
Seles and the court were not bypassed
While the Italian could play his first Grand Slam final on Sunday (seen live on SRF), Djokovic will mourn the missed opportunities. Not necessarily in the match itself – the Serbian was unable to create a single break chance – but in terms of his career statistics.
- Djokovic is no longer able to extend his record of 33 consecutive victories in Melbourne and must continue to share it with Monica Seles.
- He also ruined his final “Slam Gold” attempt – winning all four Grand Slams and an Olympic gold medal in the same year – as quickly as possible by losing the title in a “Happy Slam”.
- The Serbian still holds his 24 major titles, missing out on Margaret Court and becoming the most successful player in history among all genders with 25 victories.
legend:
Emotions in the media conference
Novak Djokovic.
Keystone/EPA/Mast Airham
Djokovic remains a consolation: he will remain on the throne of the world rankings regardless of the outcome of the tournament. And the veteran doesn't want to give up for long anyway. “I still have high hopes as I look forward to more Grand Slams and Olympic Games.”
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