Lorenzo Musetti forced to retire against Djokovic

Lorenzo Musetti was forced to retire from his Australian Open quarterfinal against Novak Djokovic due to a right upper leg injury, ending the match despite holding a two-set lead.

Musetti had been playing at a high level and led by two sets before his movement dropped early in the third set. After receiving medical attention, he was unable to continue and retired.

Djokovic advanced to the semifinals without finishing the match, but made it clear he felt for his opponent.

“I don’t know what to say except that I feel sorry for him,” Djokovic said. “He was the far better player. I was on my way home tonight. These things happen in sport. It happened to me a few times. Being up two sets to love and in full control. It’s so unfortunate. He should have been the winner today, no doubt.”

The retirement brought an abrupt end to Musetti’s Australian Open run after what had been one of his strongest performances of the tournament.