Novak Djokovic showcased his mastery at Melbourne Park once again with a late-night victory over Carlos Alcaraz, securing his place in the Australian Open semi-finals. The 10-time champion triumphed 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in a grueling match that concluded at 12:57 a.m.
Djokovic is now just two wins away from claiming a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title. However, the Serbian veteran faced a potential setback early in the match, requiring treatment for a left leg issue during the opening set. Despite the concern, Djokovic seemed to grow stronger as the contest progressed and will now face second seed Alexander Zverev in what will be his 50th Grand Slam semi-final.
Experience vs. Youth
Alcaraz, 20, entered the match as a strong contender given his recent form and victories over Djokovic in back-to-back Wimbledon finals. However, the Spaniard had never defeated Djokovic on hard courts or advanced beyond the quarter-finals in Melbourne. The 37-year-old Serbian relied on his vast experience to turn the tables, using his knowledge of Rod Laver Arena to unsettle his younger opponent.
The match began in challenging conditions with cool temperatures and wind affecting play. Both players needed time to adjust, and errors were frequent early on. Alcaraz broke Djokovic’s serve in the second game but was immediately broken back. The set remained evenly poised until Djokovic, visibly hampered by his leg, dropped serve in the ninth game, allowing Alcaraz to take the first set.
Djokovic’s Resilience
After a medical timeout, Djokovic returned with his left thigh strapped and immediately took control of the second set, racing to a 3-0 lead. Though Alcaraz fought back to level, Djokovic’s trademark resilience came through as he broke serve again to take the set.
The momentum shifted further in the third set as Djokovic found his rhythm, particularly on his returns, while Alcaraz grew increasingly frustrated. A pivotal break at 2-3 helped Djokovic take the set, with the veteran urging the crowd to cheer louder after a forehand winner sealed the deal.
Alcaraz tried to mount a comeback in the fourth set, saving match points during an intense 33-shot rally. However, Djokovic’s composure proved decisive, and he sealed victory when Alcaraz’s final backhand found the net.
Zverev Advances to Semi-Finals
Earlier, Alexander Zverev secured his third Australian Open semi-final appearance with a 7-6 (7-1), 7-6 (7-0), 2-6, 6-1 win over American Tommy Paul. The second seed overcame a shaky start, breaking Paul’s serve twice to take the first two sets via tie-breaks. Although Paul rallied in the third set, Zverev dominated the fourth to clinch the match.
“I should have been down two sets to love,” admitted Zverev. “He played better than me early on, but I’m extremely happy to be back in the semi-finals.”
Djokovic and Zverev will now face off in a high-stakes clash as the Australian Open nears its conclusion.
