Lorenzo Musetti apologises after retiring from Alexander Zverev exhibition match
Photo by Hu Chengwei/Getty ImagesGeorge PattenTue, January 13, 2026 at 6:13 PM UTC·3 min read
The Italian pulled out with a hip issue after a dramatic opening set, prompting an on-court apology and praise from Zverev for his effort.
Lorenzo Musetti’s Australian Open warm-up in Melbourne came to an early end after he was forced to retire from an exhibition match against Alexander Zverev, shortly after losing a tightly contested first set on a tiebreak.
The 23-year-old had only arrived from Hong Kong the night before the match and showed no signs of fatigue early on, pushing Zverev to a 7-6 [9-7] tiebreak. Moments later, however, Musetti called an end to the contest due to discomfort in his hip, choosing caution with the season’s first Grand Slam just days away.
Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images
Addressing the spectators immediately after retiring, Musetti expressed his regret at not being able to complete the match. He told the crowd he was “really sorry” and explained that although he wanted to continue, he did not want to risk aggravating the issue ahead of competitive matches at the Australian Open. He thanked fans for their support and said he had enjoyed the opening set.
Former doubles specialist Ryan Harrison, commentating on the broadcast, backed the Italian’s decision, noting the quality of the first set and stressing the importance of protecting the body so close to a major tournament. German former player Andrea Petkovic also weighed in, suggesting Musetti appeared to be feeling discomfort in the upper-glute area — a problem she described as common after long flights when stiffness can affect movement.
Zverev echoed those sentiments in his post-match comments, praising Musetti for even stepping onto the court after such a demanding week of travel and competition. He said many players would have cancelled the exhibition under those circumstances and credited Musetti’s professionalism and commitment.
Musetti’s physical load in the days leading into Melbourne was significant. At the 2026 Hong Kong Open, he reached both the singles and doubles finals alongside compatriot Lorenzo Sonego, playing seven matches in total across the week. His campaign included victories over Tomas Martin Etcheverry, Coleman Wong and Andrey Rublev, before losing the singles final to Alexander Bublik and lifting the doubles title with wins over Rublev and Karen Khachanov.
Looking ahead, Zverev spoke optimistically about Musetti’s long-term potential, stating that the Italian has the ability to win Masters events and Grand Slam titles in the coming years. Both players remain in search of their first major championship. Zverev, 28, has reached three Grand Slam finals — including the 2025 Australian Open final, where he lost to Jannik Sinner — and holds strong career records across all four majors.
Musetti’s history at the Australian Open has been more modest, with just three career wins in Melbourne to date, though his recent semifinal runs at the French Open and Wimbledon underline his broader upward trajectory. Whether the Italian can translate that momentum onto hard courts in 2026 will soon be tested, with the Australian Open beginning on Sunday, January 18.
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