Australian Open 2021: Novak Djokovic’s Semi Final Entry Is Commendable Considering His Abdominal Injury, Nadal Downplays Djoko’s Concerns

Serbian star defeated Alexander Zverev in a hard-fought quarter final. Social media was all praise for the ‘numero uno’ after Australian Open performance so far.

Nadal (L) and Djokovic at the Australian Open 2019. (File Photo/ Getty Images)

Novak Djokovic entered his ninth Australian Open final in thirteen years. He has never lost the grand slam after reaching the semi-final of the competition. He defeated the Belgian Zverev by 6-7(6), 6-2, 6-4, 7-6(8). It was a difficult game for the Serbian ace, he saved nine break points in the game and also saved a set point in the fourth set. The match went on for three hours and 30 minutes.

Novak Djokovic’s chances at the start of the tournament were looking bleak. He had an abdominal injury which was causing a hindrance in his game. He dropped quite a few sets in his victories which is unusual for a player like Novak. The Serbian himself had said that it was a “gamble” to play in the Australian Open in 2021. The eight-time Australian Open winner faced a muscle tear during his five-setter against Taylor Fritz. He later said he “somehow managed to find a way and win.”

It is absolutely amazing to watch the Serbian star run with passion to win each and every point against Zverev. It is extremely difficult to play with such a vigor when you are going through an internal injury like the one Novak is carrying. Djokovic will play his semi-final against the Russian Karatsev on Thursday.

Is Nadal trying to downplay Djokovic’s Injury?

The 20-time grand slam winner, Rafael Nadal will face Tsitsipas in the quarter-final of the Australian Open on Wednesday. He has not dropped a single set in the entire tournament so far and is looking a favorite to win the slam this year. But in a press conference, he said that it would be ‘impossible’ for Novak to win the title if he ‘really-really’ has an injury. This statement has ignited a discussion among Tennis fans. Nadal, who normally shares a good relationship with his rivals has made some pointed comments about Novak Djokovic’s injury.

 Rafa’s uncle and coach, Toni Nadal also said: “Alongside Rafa, Novak Djokovic is also dealing with an injury, managing to beat Milos Raonic and reach the quarters. What surprises me is that Novak almost thought about withdrawing, and then the injury disappeared over the night.”

This debate will be settled only after the final of Australian Open 2021. From the current scenario, it won’t be surprising if we see a Nadal vs Djokovic blockbuster final this year.

Nadal’s quarter-final against Tsitsipas will begin at 14:00 IST on Sony LIV.