The Australian Open is usually heated because of the Melbourne sun, but this year, the temperature is rising off the court thanks to a spicy war of words involving Novak Djokovic.

Despite advancing, Djokovic admitted afterward that Musetti was by far the better player in the match. The box score stats for the match emphasize how much better Musetti was playing. Djokovic committed 31 unforced errors and had a 25-19 disadvantage in winners through the first two sets.

Novak Djokovic created history and broke multiple world records after a five-set thriller against Jannik Sinner to reach the final of the 2026 Australian Open. The 24-time Grand Slam champion will play in his first Major summit clash since the 2023 US Open.

To make a third consecutive final, reigning champion Jannik Sinner must take care of “inspiration” and 24-time grand slam winner Novak Djokovic. Sinner has not lost in three years at Melbourne Park, ended Djokovic’s run of Australian Open dominance with victory in the 2024 semi-finals.

While the tennis star is gunning for a third consecutive Australian Open Grand Slam, his girlfriend Laila Hasanovic continues to grab headlines.

SportsLine expert Jose Onorato reveals his tennis picks and predictions for 2026 Australian Open men's semifinals