Djokovic Continues Grand Slam Quest Against Musetti in Australian Open Quarterfinal
The stage is set for a thrilling quarterfinal clash at the Australian Open 2026 as Serbian legend Novak Djokovic takes on Italian fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti. The 38-year-old Djokovic, a ten-time champion at Melbourne Park, continues his pursuit of a historic 25th Grand Slam title in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter on Rod Laver Arena.
Match Schedule and Global Start Times
The quarterfinal is scheduled as the third match on Rod Laver Arena, following women's singles matches featuring Iga Swiatek versus Elena Rybakina and Jessica Pegula against Amanda Anisimova. The Djokovic-Musetti showdown is set to begin not before 2:30 PM AEDT local time in Melbourne.
For tennis enthusiasts in different time zones:
- India: Expected start around 9:00 AM IST on January 28, 2026
- United States: Likely beginning at 10:30 PM ET on January 27, 2026
Live Broadcasting and Streaming Information
Indian viewers can catch the action live on Sony Ten channels, including Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 2, and Sony Ten 3. The match will also be available for streaming through the SonyLIV app and official website.
American audiences can watch coverage on ESPN and Tennis Channel, with additional streaming options available through their respective platforms and services that carry these networks.
Head-to-Head Record and Recent Form Analysis
Djokovic dominates the historical matchup with a commanding 9-1 lead against Musetti. The Italian's sole victory came on clay at Monte Carlo in 2023. Since then, Djokovic has won six consecutive meetings, including:
- Straight-sets victories at Wimbledon 2024
- A win at the Paris Olympics 2024
- A thrilling three-set triumph in the Athens final late 2025
Djokovic enters this quarterfinal in formidable form, having not dropped a single set throughout the tournament. His path was further eased when Jakub Mensik withdrew due to injury in the fourth round.
Musetti, meanwhile, has demonstrated impressive resilience, reaching his best-ever Australian Open performance with solid victories, including a notable win over Taylor Fritz.
Player Perspectives and Tournament Insights
Djokovic reflected on his physical condition following a third-round scare, stating: "There's always something that is happening with the body, but I think generally I feel as good as I have felt in a while. I cannot predict the future, I don't know how things are going to unfold from this day onwards, but I'm doing everything I can."
Musetti acknowledged the monumental challenge ahead while expressing cautious optimism: "Playing against Novak is always challenging, especially here, which he won many, many, many times. I think it will be a tough match, for sure. Of course, he's feeling good. He hasn't lost a set. He had the chance to rest for a few days... But of course, we know each other pretty well because we played a lot. Just won once against him. Hopefully, I'll take my revenge because last time in Athens we were really, really close. I feel like I have another chance now."
This quarterfinal represents a crucial juncture in both players' Australian Open campaigns, with Djokovic aiming to extend his legendary record and Musetti seeking to create a career-defining upset on one of tennis's grandest stages.
