Novak Djokovic’s 43-match losing streak in Australia came to an end with a surprising 6-4, 6-4 loss to Alex De Minaur in the United Cup on Wednesday night. Djokovic had not lost Down Under since the 2018 Aussie Open quarterfinals against Hyeon Chung.
De Minaur won 33 of 34 first-serve points and did not face a single break point while prevailing in one hour and 33 minutes. A single break of his own in each set was enough for the world No. 12; at 4-4 in the opener and at 3-3 in the second.
“It’s extra special,” De Minaur assured. “Novak is an unbelievable competitor and what he’s done for the sport is pretty special. It feels surreal, amazing, and I’m very happy to do it here in Perth and Australia. When you go up against Novak you have to go out and enjoy it and back yourself and no matter what keep fighting until the end. Today was my day and I’m happy that I was able to get the win.”
It marked De Minaur’s first-ever victory over an opponent ranked No. 1 in the world.
“I’m here to prove a lot of people wrong and to try and get better,” the 24-year-old added. “Ultimately I won’t be the biggest or the strongest. I will show I have variety in my game and I’m glad I could bring this level today.”
Australia swept Serbia 2-0 after Ajla Tomljanovic cruised past Natalija Stevanovic 6-1, 6-1. The Aussies await either Germany or Greece in the semifinals. The other side of the United Cup draw will pit Poland against either France or Norway.
nice one, Demon
What just happened there? Is Novak showing his age?! Or he is just doing just enough to stay fit for AO?
Has a,wrist injury apparently….
Yes, I heard that yesterday…….but y play?
But the way, happy new year to u Amy and Ricky!! 😄
Happy New year Mona and Ricky!!!😀😀
He is very patriotic. Has sabotaged himself before playing for Serbia… Think he may pay for it this year with Alcaraz and Sinner….
They keep playing the same matches over and over, Osaka vs Pliskova sigh!
Can’t wait to c Rafa play tomorrow 😜😝
Almost certainly Nole will not win the AO after this unless he gets his act together.Bad omen.
Not necessarily, Novak has won the Australian with an injury as recently as last year, no? Was it an elbow or a torn tendon which he bandaged and he won the whole thing! Trust me, Nole will be fine!
A tad sarcastic there. I do remember him being one point from losing to Korda this time last year so not the end of the world.