By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
World number four Novak Djokovic has advanced to the Australian Open semifinals after a devastated Lorenzo Musetti was forced to retire hurt when leading by two sets.
The Italian led 6-4, 6-3 in a dominant display, before pulling up with an injury to his right groin early in the third set.
The fifth seed took a medical timeout for treatment on his thigh but, unable to serve or move properly, he walked to the net and shook hands at 3-1 down in the third.
A heartbroken Musetti had to be helped down the corridor by a member of his team as he left the court.
Djokovic, aiming for a standalone record 25th Grand Slam singles title, was wayward, error-strewn and irritable against the inspired Italian in front of a stunned crowd.
“He was a far better player – I was on my way home tonight,” the 38-year-old Serb great said.
“I don’t know what to say except that I feel really sorry for him.
“I really wish him a speedy recovery. He should have been a winner today, there’s no doubt.”
Despite the good fortune, Djokovic will know he will need to improve if he is to win an 11th Australian Open title, with two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner potentially waiting in the last four.
World number two Sinner, who beat Djokovic in the semi-finals two years ago, faces American eighth seed Ben Shelton later on Wednesday.