Mensik, the 16th seed, had previously defeated Ethan Quinn in three sets on 24/1, marking his first time reaching the second week of a Grand Slam in his career. Mensik notably surprised Djokovic by defeating him in the Miami Open final last year.

Djokovic and Mensik were scheduled to face each other in the second match of the evening session on Rod Laver Arena next Monday, 26/1. However, on Sunday, 25/1, the 20-year-old Czech Republic player posted an announcement on Instagram explaining his decision to withdraw from the tournament.

Djokovic celebrates his victory over Van de Zandschulp on Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, Australia, on 24/1. Photo: Reuters

"This was a very difficult decision. After doing everything possible to continue playing, I am forced to withdraw from the Australian Open due to a left abdominal muscle injury that has worsened in recent matches. Following many discussions with my team and doctors, we decided not to play tomorrow", the 16th seed wrote on social media.

Djokovic consequently missed an opportunity for revenge against Mensik from last year's Miami Open. The Serbian player had previously defeated the world number 17 in the 2024 Shanghai Masters. With Mensik's withdrawal, Nole secured his 16th career quarterfinal appearance at Melbourne Park.

"Despite my deep disappointment, reaching the fourth round here for the first time is a memory I will cherish for a long time", Mensik added. "I felt great energy from the fans, and the atmosphere in Melbourne is truly special. Of course, I am very sad that I cannot face my idol, who is considered the greatest player in history. Now is the time for me to focus on recovering as best as possible".

Djokovic has not dropped a set at this year's Australian Open. At 38 years old, the Serbian player benefits from a direct pass to the quarterfinals, gaining extra recovery time before his quarterfinal match against either Lorenzo Musetti or Taylor Fritz, scheduled for Wednesday, 27/1. If he advances to the semifinals, Nole could potentially face second seed Jannik Sinner.

"I am still trying to compete fairly with the younger players. I am still here, still holding on. Clearly, Alcaraz and Sinner are the two best players in the world right now; they are playing at a different level compared to the rest", Djokovic said after his victory over Botic Van de Zandschulp on 24/1. "But when you step onto the court, hit that first serve, you always have a chance, especially in Australia. This is the surface that has brought me the most success in my career, so I am very much looking forward to the next match".

Vy Anh