In a stunning quarterfinal upset, World No. 293 Reilly Opelka defeated 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic at the ATP Brisbane International. The match, lasting one hour and 40 minutes, concluded with a score of 7-6(6), 6-3 in favor of Opelka.
Opelka showcased his powerful serve, hitting an impressive 16 aces, which played a crucial role in his victory over Djokovic. This marks the biggest win of Opelka's career, especially notable as it was his first-ever match against the renowned Djokovic.
\"The reality is we had nothing to lose coming in against him. He's the greatest player ever, so you end up playing more free and you take a lot more risks, because it's your only chance,\" Opelka commented on court after the match. \"If you play at your normal level, he's going to win every time.\"
The defeat leaves Djokovic with 99 career singles titles as he prepares for the Australian Open, where he aims to secure his 10th title. Meanwhile, in other matches, Belarusian world number one Aryna Sabalenka triumphed over Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic with a score of 6-3, 6-4, setting up a semifinal clash with Russian teen sensation Mirra Andreeva.
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Novak Djokovic ousted by Reilly Opelka at Brisbane International
cgtn.com
