Australian Open 2026 Day 11: Djokovic Advances, Rybakina Stuns Swiatek and Pegula Reaches Semis

Posted : 28 January 2026

Day 11 at the Australian Open 2026 delivered high‑stakes Grand Slam drama as the quarter‑final stage wrapped up at Melbourne Park, with top players vying for spots in the final four. The men’s and women’s draws both produced memorable moments that will shape the business end of the tournament.

In the women’s quarter‑finals, fifth seed Elena Rybakina pulled off a major upset by defeating second‑seeded Iga Swiatek in straight sets, 7‑5, 6‑1. The Kazakh competitor controlled much of the match from start to finish, ending Swiatek’s bid to complete a career Grand Slam at the Australian Open. The comfortable victory earns Rybakina a place in her first Melbourne semi‑final and marks one of the day’s standout results.

Shortly after, American Jessica Pegula booked her semi‑final berth with a composed performance against fellow countrywoman Amanda Anisimova, winning 6‑2, 7‑6 (7‑1). Pegula’s consistent baseline play and strong serve under pressure helped her overcome the fourth seed and set up what promises to be an intense semi‑final clash in the women’s draw.

On the men’s side, one of the most dramatic stories of the day unfolded in the quarter‑final between Novak Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti. The Italian started strongly, taking the first two sets against the 10‑time Australian Open champion, but was forced to retire in the fourth set due to a leg injury, handing Djokovic passage to the semi‑finals. For Djokovic, still chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title, it was a fortunate escape after a challenging encounter.

The final match of the day featured defending champion Jannik Sinner against American Ben Shelton, a highly anticipated quarter‑final that pits youthful power against established consistency. With Shelton’s powerful serving and aggressive play, the clash drew significant attention as fans awaited who would emerge to face Djokovic in the semis.

With the quarter‑finals now complete, the Australian Open’s semi‑final lineup is set to showcase both familiar champions and breakthrough performers as the tournament enters its closing stages.

Australian Open 2026 Day 11: Djokovic Advances, Rybakina Stuns Swiatek and Pegula Reaches Semis

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Australian Open 2026 Day 11: Djokovic Advances, Rybakina Stuns Swiatek and Pegula Reaches Semis

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Australian Open 2026 Day 11: Djokovic Advances, Rybakina Stuns Swiatek and Pegula Reaches Semis