Djokovic reveals allergy struggle in semis victory

Melbourne

Novak Djokovic admitted he was struggling with allergies and had consulted doctors after again appearing unwell during his five-set Australian Open semi-final win on Friday.

The Serbian world number one ousted fourth seed Andy Murray in five gruelling sets, a rematch of last year’s final, to set up a title match against Rafael Nadal tomorrow. The champion looked to be struggling midway through the match on Rod Laver Arena as the British fourth seed battled back from a set down to take a 2-1 lead. Djokovic won 6-3, 3-6, 6-7 (4/7), 6-1, 7-5.

Surrounded with the flowers

“I’ve seen a doctor and I’ve talked with some people. I’ve talked with a couple of players that have a little allergy problems this year in Australia... ones they didn’t have in the last couple of years but they had reactions this year.

“I suppose that’s my problem, as well. I’ve been trying to, you know, do everything possible to clear that out. But, you know, we are all surrounded with the flowers. It’s really difficult to take that away.”

The 24-year-old said Friday’s match on Rod Laver Arena, which lasted 4hr 50min had been tough on both players but said they were the kind of matches players’ practised for “all your life” to come out a winner.

Djokovic, seeking to become only the fifth man in the open era to win three consecutive grand slams, said he been forced to dig deep to beat Murray. He also looked unwell at times during his quarter-final with David Ferrer.

“You have to find strength in those moments and energy, and that keeps you going, I guess. At this level, very few points decide the winner, as it was the case tonight.

“I think we both went through a physical crisis. You know, him at the fourth set, me all the way through the second and midway through the third.”

The Serb said he ranked the match as one of the toughest of his career and said the final against the Spanish second seed would also be a physical battle.

“I will do my best to recover. I have a day and a half. I will try to get as much sleep and recovery programme under way and hope for the best.

“I think that’s going to be crucial, you know, for me to recover and to be able to perform my best, because Rafa is fit. He’s been playing well. He had an extra day. He definitely wants to win this title.”

Djokovic’s photogenic girlfriend Jelena Ristic has been an ever-present at his matches in Melbourne, and he said seeing her in the stands was a huge boost.

“She is my love and my big support,” he said. “It’s great to have her around. You know, we had lots of success together. She’s been present at the US Open and Wimbledon and many other tournaments that I have won.