Novak Djokovic defeated by Reilly Opelka in Brisbane as Aryna Sabalenka reaches semi-finals
Top seed Novak Djokovic crashed out of the Brisbane International after losing to Reilly Opelka in the quarterfinals in straight sets.
Djokovic, chasing his 100th ATP title, battled it out with the American in the first set before Opelka prevailed 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 in an hour and 40 minutes.
The 27-year-old Opelka will now face France’s Giovanni Mapetschi Pericard, who reached the semi-finals by defeating Jakub Mencic 7-5, 7-6 (7-5).
“(Djokovic) is the greatest tennis player of all time. But it’s difficult to be in his position,” said Opelka, ranked 293rd in the world.
“The reality is we have nothing to lose against him, so you play more freely and take more risks because it’s your only chance. If you play at your normal level, he’s going to win every time.” Wins.”
Opelka, who has been sidelined for almost two years from 2022 after hip and wrist surgery, is hoping to win her fifth career title in Brisbane.
“It was difficult. There were a lot of uncertainties and doubts,” Opelka said.
“I watched a lot of my friends on TV which was fun, inspiring and kept me interested in the game. I also watched Novak become the greatest during that period.”
Meanwhile, 24-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic will focus on winning his 11th Australian Open (January 12-26) title under his new coach Andy Murray.
In the other Brisbane semi-final, defending champion Grigor Dimitrov, who got a walkover after Jordan Thompson retired hurt, will face Jiri Lehka, who defeated Nicolas Jarry 6-4 6-4.
