Novak Djokovic Scripts Melbourne History With Lucky Strike! Surpasses Federer For Most...

Last Updated:January 28, 2026, 19:06 IST

With the win over Lorezo Musetti, Djokovic moved clear of the legendary Roger Federer for most singles wins at Melbourne Park with 103 victories to his name.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia signs autographs after his quarterfinal match against Lorenzo Musetti of Italy at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin)

Novak Djokovic moved into the semi-final of the Australian Open thanks to a lucky strike after Lorenzo Musetti, who was leading 6-4, 6-3, 1-3, was forced to retire due to an upper right leg injury, keeping the Serbian’s dream of a record 25th Grand Slam intact.

With the win, Djokovic moved clear of the legendary Roger Federer for most singles wins at Melbourne Park with 103 victories to his name, also extending his own record of reaching his 54th Slam semi-final.

This fortunate turn of events greatly benefited Djokovic, a 10-time Melbourne winner plagued by errors, who will now face either defending champion Jannik Sinner or American eighth seed Ben Shelton for a place in the final.

This reprieve keeps alive his quest to secure a record 25th major title. Djokovic has been striving to surpass Margaret Court and achieve this milestone since his last major win at the US Open in 2023. However, this has become increasingly challenging with the rise of players like Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

“I feel really sorry for him, he was the far better player, I was on my way home tonight," said Djokovic empathizing with the Italian.

“It has happened to me a few times. He was in full control. So unfortunate, I don’t know what else to say. He should have been the winner today, no doubt. I am extremely lucky to get through this one today."

“I have to play better. I mean, no doubt about it. I know that if I’m feeling well and the body is holding on and I’m playing well, then I always have a chance," the 38-year-old added.

“It’s the semi-finals of a Grand Slam, so in terms of confidence and motivation, it’s always there. It must be. Otherwise, what’s the point of competing?"

Following his advancement at the Major down under, Djokovic will now face either defending champion Jannik Sinner or American eighth seed Ben Shelton for a place in the final.

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