AUSTRALIAN OPEN Men´s Singles
Novak Djokovic turned back the clock with a five-set epic to dethrone Jannik Sinner and become the oldest man in the professional era to reach the Australian Open final, sending Rod Laver Arena into a frenzy.
Four months before his 39th birthday, Djokovic showed he remains unbeatable on his day as he sent the double defending champion packing with a 3-6 6-3 4-6 6-4 6-4 win in a 1:32am finish early on Saturday in Melbourne (14:32 GMT on Friday). “It feels surreal to be honest, playing over four hours,” Djokovic said on court.
“I was reminiscing in 2012 when I played Rafa [Nadal] in the final, that was six hours almost.
“The level of intensity and quality was high [against Sinner], and that was the only way to have a chance to win.
“He won the last five matches against me, he had my mobile number, so I had to change my number tonight.
“Jokes aside I said at the net: ‘Thanks for allowing me at least one’. Tremendous respect, an incredible player. He pushed me to the limit, so he deserves applause for his performance.”