The 2025 Australian Open is finally over, with Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys emerging as the ultimate champions.
However, one incident that garnered the most attention was when Novak Djokovic retired mid-match against Alexander Zverev during the semi-finals. As Djokovic walked away from the court due to a muscle tear on his left thigh, the Rod Laver Arena remained in shock.
For the uninitiated, Djokovic’s fitness had already divided opinions when he took a medical timeout against young gun Carlos Alcaraz in the first set of the quarter-finals. Despite being unfit, Novak turned the match around and beat the World No. 3 in four sets.
However, in the post-match interview, Alcaraz seemed to be mocking the Serbian professional over his injury. Well, that’s something that Novak Djokovic has always been
As expected, Novak’s shocking withdrawal sparked speculation from fans and critics worldwide. While many fans accepted Novak’s withdrawal with an open heart, others remain critical.
Tony Nadal questions the ‘authenticity’ of Novak Djokovic’s injury
Joining the bandwagon is Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach, Tony Nadal, who has raised questions over the shocking withdrawal without consulting a physio or even requesting a time-out for the injury.
Tony Nadal said in the Spanish media outlet El Pais, “Firstly, I understand that the public showed their disappointment and anger at being deprived of the spectacle they had been expecting after having paid for it.”
Continuing further, he added, “The second and perhaps most significant reason is that over the years, there has been a growing suspicion around Novak, due to his expressions or histrionics, casting doubt on the authenticity of his injuries. When a player faces physical problems in such a match, they typically delay the decision to withdraw until the last moment.”
He further discussed how Novak has achieved many great victories and performances with similar ‘expressions and body language’ despite all the injuries.
Continuing further, he added. “On several occasions, we have seen Novak with similar performances, using facial expressions and body language that contradict what we see on the court, raising doubts about the authenticity of his issues.”
That’s not all; the former coach even called out the people who booed at him while exiting. He talked about how a great tennis player like him should not be treated in this manner and that too in the Rod Laver Arena, where he holds the most victories.
Tony concluded, “I believe that a great champion like the Serbian, someone who has contributed to writing the most glorious pages of tennis history, should not depart in this manner from any court and even less so from the Rod Laver Arena, where he holds the records for victories and titles.“
Putting a stop to all these questions, Novak Djokovic posted a picture of his injured left hamstring on social media.
