I am lost for words: Djokovic after battling past Sinner to set up Australian Open final vs Alcaraz
Vintage Novak Djokovic dethroned two-time champion Jannik Sinner in a five-set classic to set up an Australian Open final against Carlos Alcaraz.
New Delhi: Novak Djokovic stunned Jannik Sinner in a five-set classic to become the oldest man to qualify for the Australian Open final at the Rod Laver Arena on Friday, January 30.
Just four months before his 39th birthday, the Serbian showed great determination and grit to beat the Italian 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in an epic five-set semifinal. After the match, Djokovic said Sinner won the last five matches against him and had his mobile number, but he changed it tonight.
"I can’t speak right now. It’s surreal to have played for so long and at such a high level. I was reminiscing in 2012 when I played Rafa (Nadal) in the final, that was six hours almost," Djokovic said on court.
The Serbian further said that the level of intensity and quality was high against Sinner, and that was the only way to have a chance to win. He also said that Sinner pushed him to the limit and deserves applause for his performance.
"He won the last five matches against me, he had my mobile number, so I had to change my number tonight. Jokes aside I said at the net: 'Thanks for allowing me at least one'. Tremendous respect, an incredible player," Djokovic added.
'I said it would be difficult to beat Sinner and Alcaraz, but not impossible'
Djokovic will face world number one Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's Australian Open final. The Spaniard defeated Alexander Zverev in the longest Australian Open semi-final.
"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," the Serbian said.
Eighteen years after his maiden Australian Open crown, Djokovic will aim for a record-extending 11th Melbourne title against Alcaraz and the unmatched 25th Grand Slam title.
He needed incredible luck to qualify for the semi-finals, with his quarter-final opponent, Lorenzo Musetti, retiring injured after winning the first two sets. Djokovic also had a walkover in the fourth round, when Jakub Mensik withdrew.
But, Djokovic reached in the final with hard work and determination against Sinner, a player who had defeated him in their previous five matches.