‘I am lost for words’: Djokovic after epic Australian Open semifinal win over Sinner

Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates winning his semifinal match against Italy's Jannik Sinner. 

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic said he was lost for words after his thrilling five-set Australian Open semifinal win over world number two Jannik Sinner at the Rod Laver Arena on Friday.

ning his semifinal match against Italy's Jannik Sinner. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic said he was lost for words after his thrilling five-set Australian Open semifinal win over world number two Jannik Sinner at the Rod Laver Arena on Friday.

“I can’t speak right now. It’s surreal to have played for so long and at such a high level,” Djokovic said in an on-court interview after his 3-6, 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 win.

The victory against Sinner was Djokovic’s first in their last six meetings.

“Jannik has won the last five matches against me. I thanked him at the net for at least allowing me one victory. I have huge respect for Jannik, he pushes you to your absolute limit and today he did that with me, he deserves the applause,” said the 38-year-old.

“Thank you to all of you who stayed up until late at night to watch the match. The atmosphere today was one of the best I’ve ever experienced.”

Djokovic will next take on Carlos Alcaraz in the final on Sunday as he chases a record 25th Grand Slam title.

“I said it would be difficult to beat Sinner and Alcaraz… but not impossible!

“I have to come back and fight the no. 1 in the world. I hope I have enough gas left to go toe-to-toe against him,” he said.

Djokovic needed incredible fortune to reach the semifinal, with his quarterfinal ‍opponent, Lorenzo Musetti, retiring injured after taking the first two sets.

The Serb enjoyed a walkover in the fourth round as well, when Jakub Mensik pulled out.

But ‍it was hard work and mental toughness that got Djokovic over the line against Sinner, a player who had beaten him in their previous five matches.

Victory came grudgingly.