Lorenzo Musetti has troubled Novak Djokovic before, and on Friday, he faces the Serbian great in his first Major semifinal at Wimbledon. Musetti has a chance to deploy his unique skill set against one of the game’s legends.
Musetti’s Journey to the Semifinals
At the 2021 French Open, Lorenzo Musetti nearly achieved one of the most significant upsets in recent history. In a gripping fourth-round match, he led Novak Djokovic by two sets before an injury forced him to retire. Despite his defeat, the then 19-year-old Italian showcased his potential. Fast forward three years, Musetti has a tattoo around his ribcage that reads ‘Il meglio deve ancora venire’ – ‘the best is yet to come.’ This Friday, he will test that belief against Djokovic in his first Major semifinal.
A Glimpse into Musetti’s Potential
The 25th-seeded Musetti may seem like an unlikely semifinalist, but his journey has been anything but ordinary. While peers like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have become household names, Musetti has quietly developed his game. His head-to-head record against Djokovic stands at 5-1, but within those six encounters, he has shown glimpses of brilliance. Musetti secured his first high-profile win over Djokovic on Monte Carlo’s clay last year and recently pushed him to five sets at Roland Garros.
Musetti’s Unique Playing Style
Musetti’s game is a throwback to a different era, characterized by touch, finesse, and variety. Unlike the power hitters dominating modern tennis, Musetti’s style is more nuanced, relying on his exceptional backhand slice and drop shots. This approach is particularly effective on grass, where his ability to change the pace disrupts opponents’ rhythms.
Craft and Guile on Display
In his recent matches, Musetti has neutralized big servers and hard hitters like Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard and Taylor Fritz with his crafty play. His backhand slice, which stays low and barely clears the net, has proven to be a potent weapon. This shot forces opponents, including Djokovic, to play outside their comfort zones and tests their agility and shot-making under pressure.
The Djokovic Challenge
Djokovic, known for controlling the flow of play, finds Musetti’s constant momentum shifts challenging. The Italian’s single-handed backhand and effective slice often put Djokovic on the back foot. Given Djokovic’s recent knee surgery, Musetti’s ability to force low, awkward returns could be pivotal.
A Test of Grit and Composure
Critics might argue that Musetti’s stylish play lacks substance, especially under the immense pressure of Wimbledon’s Centre Court. However, Musetti’s quarterfinal win showcased his resilience. To succeed against Djokovic, Musetti must combine his artistry with composure and seize the moment without being overwhelmed by the occasion.
The Final Push
The crowd at Wimbledon is likely to rally behind Musetti, potentially unsettling Djokovic. If Musetti can remain calm and focused, drawing inspiration from his ‘the best is yet to come’ mantra, he has the tools to make this semifinal a memorable contest.
As Musetti prepares to face Djokovic, he knows that his unique style and strategic play could carve a path to victory. This match represents not just a challenge but an opportunity to confirm that his best is indeed yet to come.
