Coming into Wimbledon, many doubted Novak Djokovic. While some suggested that he shouldn’t have played, some said that his time at the top is finally over. But, he did what he is best known for and managed to silence the critic with yet another semi-final in London. With just a couple steps away from clinching what could be his 25th grand slam record, he would be determined and would keep his injury woes aside to make his way into his second successive finals. However, standing his way in the semis will be the Italian powerhouse Lorenzo Musetti.

While all the Italian hopes rested on Jannik Sinner, he lost to Daniil Medvedev in Quarterfinals. Although he is standing strong at his No. 1 stop, the No. 25 is looking all set to extend his H2H tally against the World No. 2. With the stage all set for an intriguing semi-final, who among the two will come out on top?

Novak Djokovic vs Lorenzo Musetti: Preview

Currently ranked no. 2 in the world, Djokovic advanced to the Wimbledon semifinals with dominant performances. He defeated Vit Kopriva, Jacob Fearnley, Alexei Popyrin, and Holger Rune, and advanced past Alex De Minaur by walkover. Djokovic’s best results this season include reaching the semifinals at the Australian Open, Monte Carlo, and Geneva.

He dropped only two sets throughout the tournament, winning 56% of the points played. Djokovic has a 22-6 win-loss record in 2024, with a perfect 4-0 on grass. His consistent and powerful play has secured his spot in the Wimbledon semifinals.

On the other hand, Lorenzo Musetti reached the Wimbledon semifinals with notable wins. He defeated Constant Lestienne, Luciano Darderi, Francisco Comesana, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, and Taylor Fritz. Against Fritz, Musetti scored 147 points to Fritz’s 134, blasting 63 winners.

He served 7 aces with 3 double faults, winning 76% of his first serves and 54% of his second serves, though he lost serve 4 times. Musetti broke Fritz 6 times, converting 46% of his break points. Despite conceding 7 sets, he won 54% of the points played. Musetti’s best results this year include finals at the Cagliari and Turin Challengers, and London. He has a 29-19 record in 2024, 12-2 on grass.

Djokovic vs Musetti: Head-to-head

When it comes to the head-to-head statistics between the two players, Djokovic has been a clear winner among the two. Interestingly, these two stars have faced each other a total of 6 times and the Serbian has maintained a healthy lead of 5-1.

• First meeting: 2021 French Open, Round of 16- Djokovic won 6-7(7), 6-7(2), 6-1, 6-0, 4-0 (RET)..
• Second meeting: 2022 Dubai, Round of 16- Djokovic won 6-3, 6-3.
• Third meeting: 2022 Paris Masters, Quarterfinals – Djokovic won 6-0, 6-3.
• Fourth meeting: 2023 Monte Carlo Masters, Round of 16- Musetti won 4-6, 7-5, 6-4.
• Fifth meeting: 2024 Monte Carlos Masters, Round of 16- Djokovic won 7-5, 6-3.
• Sixth meeting: 2024 French Open, third round – Djokovic won 7-5, 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0.

While this will be their seventh meeting, the big question that now arises is, who among the two will be able to secure that much needed win?

Prediction: Novak Djokovic to make his way into the second straight final

The Serbian, despite being the heavy favorite, is wary of the Italian who pushed him to the limit in a thrilling five-set match at the French Open. Djokovic’s superior grass-court prowess and additional rest from a canceled quarterfinal give him a clear advantage.

However, Musetti’s recent form, highlighted by a stunning upset over Taylor Fritz, cannot be ignored. His ability to dictate play and vary his shots makes him a dangerous opponent. While Djokovic is expected to prevail, the match promises to be a closely contested battle. The Serbian will need to capitalize on break points and dominate extended rallies to prevent Musetti from gaining control.

Musetti’s inexperience at this stage of a Grand Slam and the physical toll of his previous matches could be factors in his favor. Djokovic’s knee health remains a question mark, potentially opening the door for an upset. Ultimately, Djokovic’s experience and overall consistency are expected to be decisive factors.

Prediction: A potential four-set victory for Djokovic, with a loss in the opening set, is a likely scenario.