Novak Djokovic pushed through various challenges to continue his chase for a record 25th Grand Slam title in the Australian Open quarterfinals. He faced a problem with his left leg, an early deficit, and a determined opponent in Carlos Alcaraz, who was also trying to make his own mark in history.
Djokovic overcame it all, as he has done many times before, moving into the semifinals at Melbourne Park for the 12th time with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 win over Alcaraz in a thrilling match that lasted more than 3 1/2 hours. The two players, 16 years apart in age, gave the crowd an unforgettable contest.
“I just wish that this match today was the final,” Djokovic said. “One of the most epic matches I’ve played on this court. On any court.”
The match was non-stop, filled with brilliant shots, especially during a 33-shot rally in the fourth set when Alcaraz saved a break point. The long rally ended with Djokovic hitting a forehand out, but Alcaraz couldn’t maintain the momentum, and Djokovic eventually took control.
“I felt like I was controlling the match, and I let him get into the match again,” Alcaraz said. “When Novak is at this level, it’s really difficult.”
Djokovic showed his determination as he celebrated points with his usual gestures—pointing to his ear, blowing kisses, or spreading his arms. One of the most impressive moments was a forehand winner on a 22-stroke rally that gave Djokovic a 5-3 lead in the third set. Alcaraz had his moments too, particularly after a powerful forehand in the fourth set when he yelled “Vamos!” and pumped his fists.
When the match ended, Djokovic celebrated with his team, hugging his coach, Andy Murray, and then applauding Alcaraz as he left the court.
“I’m sure we are going to see a lot of him,” Djokovic said. “Maybe not as much as I would like.”
Next, Djokovic will face No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev in the semifinals on Friday. Zverev reached the semifinals by defeating No. 12 Tommy Paul 7-6 (1), 7-6 (0), 2-6, 6-1. Djokovic hopes to recover and be fully ready for the challenge.
This match was the eighth meeting between Djokovic and Alcaraz, but the first at the Australian Open and the first outside a semifinal or final. Zverev described it as “a clash of generations” between two of the best players ever to play the sport.
At 37, Djokovic is no longer in his prime, but his achievements are unmatched—10 Australian Open titles and 24 Grand Slam singles titles. At 21, Alcaraz is still developing, but he has already broken records, such as being the first teenager to reach No. 1 in the ATP rankings and winning major titles on three different surfaces.
Alcaraz has his sights set on completing a career Grand Slam by winning in Australia, adding to his titles from Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, and the French Open. Djokovic, on the other hand, focused on winning Olympic gold for Serbia in 2024, having already won the title at the Paris Games last summer, where he defeated Alcaraz in the final.
“Every time that we play against each other, I think a show is guaranteed,” Alcaraz said. “I’m just lucky I get to live this experience.”
While preparing for the match, Djokovic had been upset about some remarks made by an Australian TV commentator and refused to speak to the official broadcaster. He received an apology from the channel and was ready to focus on the game.
However, during the match, Djokovic experienced pain in his left thigh, which forced him to take a medical timeout. After receiving treatment, he returned with his thigh taped and managed to win the second set. Djokovic credited painkillers for helping him feel better and maintain his level of play.
The match took place in front of a full crowd, with the atmosphere being intense. Fans cheered and gasped during the spectacular rallies, and the players showed off their incredible skills, despite the windy and cooler conditions.
Both players tracked down difficult shots and went from defense to offense with impressive winners. Alcaraz showcased drop shots, while Djokovic made incredible returns, including two winners that sealed the second set.
Despite Alcaraz’s strong play, it was Djokovic who emerged victorious on this remarkable night.
