Either we are witnessing an infamous tactic used to overturn a seemingly losing proposition, or Novak Djokovic is in serious physical trouble. Having fought his way to the quarterfinals to set up a date against Carlos Alcaraz, the Serb isn’t looking too good despite displaying a fine performance at the Rod Laver Arena. Melbourne’s intense heat, mixed with the overwhelming matchplay, seems to be troubling the former World No. 1.

Both players kicked off the contest in high spirits, constantly battling to gain a considerable lead over one another. While the duo held their respective service games, it was at 4-4 when Alcaraz broke the Serbian to lead the set 5-4. Amid rising tensions among Serbian fans, Djokovic gave the community another reason to bite their nails after requesting a medical timeout (MTO), moments before the Spaniard served for the first set.

As per the updates, Nole walked off the court alongside the tournament’s medical team to examine his physical concerns. Djokovic called for an MTO after he was seen stretching and wincing following an intense rally with Alcaraz. He returned to the court a few minutes later and conceded the set to Alcaraz, 6-4, before serving for the second set.

Fans can only hope that Djokovic isn’t suffering from a serious injury scare that can halt his plans for a record-extending 10th Australian Open title at Melbourne Park. While some fear a serious injury, others, including American John McEnroe, believe that this is yet another stunt from Djokovic to turn the tables. “This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this routine. Don’t be fooled,” said McEnroe on Djokovic appearing to be injured at the AO.

Novak Djokovic has been in the news lately for his unhappiness against a Channel 9 broadcaster.

Australian Open host broadcaster apologies to Novak Djokovic for ‘indecent’ comments

Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic took center stage at the Australian Open after Tony Jones, a regular for Channel 9 broadcast, made insulting and demeaning comments about the Serb and his fans during a live cross. The Aussie labeled the former World No. 1 as “overrated” and a “has-been” before earning acute backlash from fans on social media.

The situation escalated quickly after Nole boycotted his on-court interview with Jim Courier, who works for Channel 9, as a protest against the comments made by his colleague following R4’s win. He later addressed fans saying, “A famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9 … made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments toward me. I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit. That’s all.”

After declaring that he would avoid speaking to the channel, the official broadcaster apologized to the Serb’s camp. “No harm was intended towards Novak or his fans. We look forward to further showcasing his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park.” For those unaware, Jones also apologized to Djokovic and clarified that his remarks were purely meant as “banter”.

Djokovic has a rocky history in Australia. It was only a couple of years ago that he was deported from Australia due to the COVID-19 vaccination mandate. However, with those concerns now in the rearview mirror, Nole will be looking to end his AO campaign on a positive note this year.