• Novak Djokovic advances to the Australian Open semi-finals after Lorenzo Musetti retires due to injury.
• Musetti was leading two sets to none before retiring, with severe thigh issues impacting his game.
• This match marks Djokovic's 103rd win at the Australian Open, surpassing Federer.
• Djokovic expresses sorrow for Musetti, stating he was the superior player at the time of retirement.
• The Serbian aims for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, with a potential showdown against Jannik Sinner next.

Novak Djokovic's quest for a record Grand Slam title continued in dramatic fashion as he advanced to the Australian Open semi-finals after fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti retired due to injury, with Musetti leading 6-4, 6-3, 1-3. This unexpected turn of events kept Djokovic's hopes alive for a standalone 25th major title, allowing him to escape what could have been a devastating defeat at Melbourne Park, which he has dominated over the years. Musetti's retirement left the crowd in shock, marking Djokovic's 103rd victory at the tournament, eclipsing Roger Federer's record, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

Djokovic acknowledged his fortune in the match, stating, "I feel really sorry for him... I was on my way home tonight," reflecting Musetti's dominant performance prior to the injury. Musetti had demonstrated great control and skill, with Djokovic struggling with unforced errors that reached 32 over the match. "He should have been the winner today, there's no doubt," Djokovic added, emphasizing his sympathy for Musetti, who was clearly in distress and needed assistance off the court, as reported by BBC and Al Jazeera.

Despite facing discomfort from blisters on his feet, Djokovic had a brief lead in the third set before Musetti's injury forced a retirement. Throughout the match, Musetti's skill and tactical prowess had many believing he would secure the upset win over the ten-time Australian Open champion. Djokovic, now focused on his next challenge, awaits the outcome of the match between defending champion Jannik Sinner and Ben Shelton, aiming to continue his pursuit of a historic title, according to BBC and Channel News Asia.