Inspired Opelka plays his ace to stun Djokovic

Novak Djokovic's hunt for a landmark 100th ATP title ended with a whimper following an unexpected 7-6 (8-6), 6-3 defeat by big-serving Reilly Opelka in the Brisbane International quarter-finals on Jan 3.

Defeat was a huge blow for the Serb, who will bid to join Roger Federer (103) and Jimmy Connors (109) as players who have won at least 100 titles when he heads to the Australian Open, where he will also seek a 25th Grand Slam.

Djokovic saved three breakpoints in stifling conditions to go 5-4 up but lost the opening set in a tough tiebreak as Opelka cranked up his serve and seized early control in his maiden tour meeting against the 37-year-old.

Opelka, who missed nearly two years due to injuries before returning to the elite circuit in 2024, broke for a 3-1 lead in the next set as Djokovic looked rattled by the 2.1m American, who pulled off spectacular winners on both flanks.

The final blow came on Opelka's serve and the 27-year-old fittingly finished the match with his 16th ace against one of the game's best returners.

"He's the greatest player the sport has ever seen," said Opelka after one of his biggest wins.