The tournament leaves Saudi Arabia amid sportswashing accusations and ongoing conflict in the Middle East
Djokovic overcomes tough encounter with Fritz in Melbourne
NOVAK DJOKOVIC fought off a strong challenge from Taylor Fritz today to reach the Australian Open semi-finals for the 11th time.
The world number one has never lost in Melbourne once he has made it beyond the last eight, and there is no doubt how much he wants a 25th grand-slam title.
Djokovic had beaten American Fritz in all eight of their previous meetings but this was certainly not straightforward, with the top seed finally securing a 7-6 (3) 4-6 6-2 6-3 victory after three hours and 45 minutes.
Similar stories
Novak Djokovic could topple his own record 24 Grand Slam singles titles at the US Open, but the shadow of Rafael Nadal’s greatness still hovers over both the men’s and women’s draws, writes LINDA PENTZ GUNTER


