Serbian Novak Djokovic (7) retired from the Australian Open semifinal match after Germany’s Alexander Zverev (2) claimed the first set 7-6(5) in a grueling one hour and 21 minutes.

The 10-time Australian Open champion ultimately could not overcome the injury he sustained late in the first set of his quarterfinal victory against Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz (3).

"Please, don’t boo a player who retires due to injury—especially someone who has won this tournament playing through an abdominal tear and a hamstring injury," Zverev remarked after securing his spot in his third Grand Slam final.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion had faced intense criticism over the last two days at Melbourne Park following his victory against the Spaniard. Many questioned his ability to recover so quickly from an apparent hamstring injury that had affected him during the latter stages of the first set, which Alcaraz ultimately won.

After rallying to win that match, Djokovic revealed the injury was serious, but anti-inflammatory medication had helped him push through. However, he admitted uncertainty about his fitness for the clash against Zverev.

Concerns escalated on Thursday when Djokovic canceled his training session due to physical issues. Yet, the 37-year-old Serbian completed his pre-match warmup without trouble and began the semifinal against Zverev, engaging in intense rallies that tested his limits. Zverev, aware of Djokovic’s condition, extended points relentlessly.

After an hour and 21 minutes, Djokovic mishandled a straightforward volley on Zverev's first set point. Immediately, Djokovic approached the net, shook hands with his opponent, and informed both Zverev and the chair umpire of his decision to retire.

With this victory, Zverev became the third German in the Open Era to reach the Australian Open final, joining Boris Becker and Rainer Schuettler. He now awaits the winner of the second semifinal between defending champion Jannik Sinner (1) and American Ben Shelton (21).