Novak Djokovic defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 7-6, 6-4 in the Wimbledon 2024 men’s singles semifinal, setting up a final clash with Carlos Alcaraz.
The top-seeded Djokovic, recognized as the most successful men’s tennis player in the modern era, overcame a shaky start in the first set, where Musetti broke him early. However, Djokovic quickly regained control, showcasing his superior play to clinch the match in straight sets. He is now scheduled to face Carlos Alcaraz, who secured his spot in the final by defeating Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in four sets.
Just five weeks post-knee surgery, the seven-time Wimbledon champion reached his 10th final at the All England Club, eyeing a record-equaling eighth Wimbledon title. If victorious against Alcaraz, Djokovic would also become the oldest champion in the tournament’s modern era, avenging his dramatic five-set loss to Alcaraz in last year’s final.
Djokovic last faced Musetti at the French Open in June, winning in a third-round match that concluded at 3:07 AM. On Friday, he showcased his championship mettle. After a challenging ninth game, he regained his service break in the opening set and broke Musetti again to secure the set.
His vast experience in the Grand Slam semi-finals, this is his 49th, played a crucial role. After dropping his serve early in the second set, Djokovic bounced back, winning the tie-break decisively.
A break in the first game of the third set set Djokovic on a clear path to victory. Although Musetti managed to save three match points, Djokovic ultimately secured his spot in the final.
Earlier in the day, world number three Alcaraz defeated fifth-ranked Medvedev 6-7 (1/7), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4. Alcaraz, who overcame Djokovic in last year’s thrilling five-set final, expressed readiness for the challenge, noting his familiarity with the final stage pressures.
Alcaraz’s resilience was evident as he rebounded from a first-set loss, which saw Medvedev receive a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct. Alcaraz then dominated the subsequent sets, leveraging crucial breaks and executing 14 winners in the third set alone, eventually securing his victory and setting the stage for a showdown with Djokovic.
