Novak Djokovic has confirmed he will not train on Saturday before the Australian Open final, prioritising recovery after a gruelling semi-final that ended at 1.30am local time. The 38-year-old defeated two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner 3-6 6-3 4-6 6-4 6-4 in four hours and nine minutes, with media duties keeping him awake until around 3am. Former British player Tim Henman revealed on TNT Sports that Djokovic did not get to sleep until 6am.
Djokovic will face Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday night's championship match, with both men seeking historic achievements. Djokovic aims for a record 25th Grand Slam title, while Alcaraz, 22, could become the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam. Alcaraz also endured a five-set semi-final, beating Alexander Zverev 6-4 7-6 6-7 6-7 7-5 in five hours and 27 minutes – the longest semi-final in Australian Open history.
Speaking after his semi-final victory, Djokovic said: "Definitely not going to train tomorrow. Just going to use every hour I possibly can to recover, and hopefully get out on the finals day feeling somewhat refreshed." He acknowledged that Alcaraz's age would aid his recovery, noting the 16-year age gap. Djokovic also reminded observers that he defeated Alcaraz in a tough match at the same stage last year.
Djokovic described his semi-final win as one of the finest in recent years, adding: "Under the circumstances and semis against Sinner, who has been playing best tennis of his life... doesn't get better than this." He expressed pride and relief at reaching the final, saying it felt like "a win that almost equals winning a Grand Slam."
