Lorenzo Musetti described it as a “magic day” after overcoming Taylor Fritz in a five-set thriller to secure his spot in the Wimbledon semifinals against seven-time champion Novak Djokovic.
The Italian battled back from a set and a break down, ultimately prevailing 3-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 in a gripping quarterfinal match.
Reflecting on his victory, Musetti remarked, “After the birth of my son, I will put this in the second position. Of course, for my career, it is the best day of my life.”
Djokovic advanced to the semifinals without playing as his scheduled opponent, Alex de Minaur, withdrew due to a hip injury.
Musetti, who has won only one of their six previous meetings, acknowledged Djokovic’s stature, especially at Wimbledon, labeling him a “legend.”
“I’m expecting a big, big fight,” Musetti added. “It’s one of the toughest challenges on tour, but I’m an ambitious guy and I like to be challenged.”
Fritz, who had defeated Alexander Zverev from two sets down in the previous round, showcased strong form early on but was unable to maintain momentum against Musetti’s dynamic play.
The match, played on a packed Court One with the roof open, saw Fritz break early in the first set and again in the second, only to face Musetti’s resilient response.
After a dominant third set by Musetti, Fritz raised his game in the fourth, forcing a decider. However, Musetti surged ahead 5-0 in the final set, eventually clinching victory.
Fritz has now lost all four of his Grand Slam quarterfinals appearances.
With Fritz’s exit, the United States continues to wait for another men’s Wimbledon champion, having secured 15 titles since the Open era began in 1968.
Musetti’s impressive run adds another chapter to Italian tennis success, following Jannik Sinner’s rise and Matteo Berrettini’s runner-up finish in 2021. No Italian man has ever won the Wimbledon singles title.
