Novak Djokovic once again defied time and expectation, storming into the Australian Open final after a pulsating five-set triumph over defending champion Jannik Sinner in the early hours of Melbourne.
The Serbian great produced a masterclass of resilience and composure to edge past the Italian 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in a gripping semi-final that stretched beyond four hours and concluded after 1:30am local time. In doing so, Djokovic secured a blockbuster final clash against Carlos Alcaraz, who earlier overcame Alexander Zverev in the other semi-final.
At nearly 39 years of age, Djokovic leaned heavily on his vast experience and mental fortitude to overturn recent history, halting a five-match losing streak against Sinner. The victory also marked his first Grand Slam final appearance since Wimbledon 2024, underlining his enduring presence at the pinnacle of men’s tennis.
Eighteen years on from lifting his maiden Australian Open trophy, Djokovic now stands on the brink of further immortality, chasing a record-extending 11th Melbourne title and an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam crown.
The emotional weight of the moment was evident as Sinner’s final forehand drifted wide. Djokovic raised his arms in triumph before collapsing onto the court, a mixture of exhaustion, relief and joy etched across his face.
“I’m honestly lost for words. It feels surreal,” Djokovic reflected post-match. “The level and intensity were extremely high. I knew I had to bring my very best to stand a chance.”
In the process, Djokovic etched his name deeper into the record books, becoming the oldest men’s singles finalist at the Australian Open in the Open Era, eclipsing a benchmark that had stood since 1972.
The encounter ebbed and flowed throughout, with Sinner seizing early momentum and Djokovic responding with authoritative serving and relentless depth from the baseline. Though fatigue loomed large, the Serbian elevated his game in the deciding set, converting his lone break-point opportunity to seal a memorable victory.
Former British number one Tim Henman lauded the performance as “phenomenal” and “almost impossible to comprehend” given Djokovic’s stage of career.
All eyes now turn to the final, where Djokovic will renew his rivalry with world number one Carlos Alcaraz in what promises to be another electrifying chapter at the Australian Open.