Novak Djokovic interrupts interview to tell kids Stefan and Tara to go to sleep after 1 am finish to Australian Open QF thriller

Novak Djokovic has advanced to the semifinals of the 2025 Australian Open with an exceptional performance against Carlos Alcaraz. Djokovic's wife Jelena and their children, Stefan and Tara, were cheering him on from the crowd, which led to a humorous parenting moment from the Serb after his triumph.

Djokovic and Alcaraz's highly anticipated clash in the quarterfinals of the Melbourne Slam did not disappoint as the duo engaged in an intense three-hour and 37-minute battle. Despite losing the opening set, the 24-time Grand Slam champion mounted a remarkable comeback and overcame physical struggles to claim a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory.

During the on-court interview, Jim Courier asked Novak Djokovic whether his experience of triumphing at the 2023 Australian Open despite struggling with a leg injury had helped him seal the win over Carlos Alcaraz. However, the 37-year-old was distracted by the sight of his children still in the stadium despite it being 1 am.

Interrupting the interview, the Serb expressed gratitude for his children's support but encouraged them to head to bed due to the late hour. The 24-time Grand Slam champion's remarks prompted a humorous response from his daughter Tara, who mimicked checking her watch.

"Sorry I heard your question. I’m just, I'm surprised my kids are still here. I love you. Thank you for supporting me. But it’s 1 am. When are you gonna sleep tonight?" he asked.

Novak Djokovic on wife Jelena and their kids joining him at Australian Open: "My heart is full when I have my family with me"

The Serb with his wife Jelena and their children - Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic's children, Stefan and Tara, have joined him at the Australian Open for the first time in his career. Following an exhibition match at the Melbourne Slam, the 37-year-old emphasized how fulfilling it was to have his family present for his campaign.

The World No. 7 also expressed his heartfelt appreciation for his wife Jelena, acknowledging her willingness to make the long trip with their children, Stefan and Tara.

"It means the world to me. It's their first time in Australia, so it's great to have them there. My heart is full, you know, when I have my family with me. It's a long way to get to Australia from where we live. I appreciate my wife [who was] willing to make the trip with my kids and giving me support that is always necessary," he said.

Novak Djokovic will count on his family's continued support as he gears up to continue his quest for his 25th Grand Slam title against Alexander Zverev in the semifinals of the Australian Open. Zverev claimed a 7-6(1), 7-6(0), 2-6, 6-1 win over Tommy Paul to book his place against the Serb.