Novak Djokovic Out, Reilly Opelka Advances to Brisbane Semis

Novak Djokovic suffered a straight-set quarter-final defeat at the Brisbane International, losing to Reilly Opelka 7-6 (8-6) 6-3. Djokovic, who was aiming for his 100th ATP title had a tight first set but Opelka surged ahead to claim the victory in one hour and 40 minutes. Opelka ranked 293rd will face France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who beat Jakub Mensik 7-5 7-6 (7-5) in the semi-finals.

Opelka, who had been sidelined for nearly two years after hip and wrist surgeries, expressed admiration for Djokovic but noted that facing him without pressure allowed for a freer, more aggressive game. Novak Djokovic, who now shifts his focus to the Australian Open (January 12-26) will have new coach Andy Murray by his side.

Meanwhile, in the other half of the draw, defending champion Grigor Dimitrov received a walkover into the semi-finals after Jordan Thompson retired hurt. Dimitrov will now face Jiri Lehecka, who defeated Nicolas Jarry 6-4 6-4. In the women’s singles, world number one Aryna Sabalenka defeated Marie Bouzkova 6-3 6-4 to reach the semi-finals.

Sabalenka will meet 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva, who ousted former world number two Ons Jabeur 6-4 7-6 (7-2). The pair last met at the 2024 French Open where Andreeva upset Sabalenka in three sets. Sabalenka praised Andreeva as a great player and expressed excitement for their upcoming clash. In the other women’s semi-final, Polina Kudermetova will take on Anhelina Kalinina, both of whom advanced with strong performances.