Novak Djokovic overcame adversity to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open quarterfinals on Tuesday night, continuing his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title.
Djokovic triumphed 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in a thrilling match that lasted over 3½ hours at Rod Laver Arena.
“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.”
Match Highlights
The match featured exceptional shot-making and electric rallies, epitomized by a 33-stroke exchange late in the fourth set. Alcaraz saved a break point during the rally, prompting roars from the capacity crowd.
After the point, Djokovic grabbed his left thigh, expressing frustration, while Alcaraz leaned on a towel box, smiling through exhaustion.
Though Alcaraz’s delayed Djokovic’s victory, never giving up, the seven-time Australian Open champion, however, showcased his trademark mental strength and play.
Djokovic’s defining moments included a 22-stroke rally that ended with a forehand winner to break Alcaraz’s serve in the third set and a stunning defensive sprint to chase down a lob, sealing the set.
The Serbian frequently celebrated by pointing to his ear, blowing kisses, and spreading his arms, while Alcaraz, with his signature “Vamos!” chants, also ignited the crowd.
When the match concluded, Djokovic roared in celebration, embraced his coach Andy Murray, and applauded Alcaraz as the Spaniard left the court.
“I’m sure we are going to see a lot of him,” Djokovic said of Alcaraz.
“Maybe not as much as I would like.”
Key Turning Points
Alcaraz started strong, taking the first set, but Djokovic rebounded in the second. At 4-4 in the first set, Djokovic grabbed his thigh and crouched after stretching for a shot.
Following a medical timeout, he returned with his left thigh taped and began aggressively attacking Alcaraz’s serves.
“If I lost that second set, I don’t know if I would continue playing,” Djokovic revealed.
He credited medication from the tournament doctor for enabling him to push through the pain.
Historical Implications
This was the eighth meeting between Djokovic and Alcaraz but their first at the Australian Open.
Alcaraz, 21, holds four Grand Slam titles, while Djokovic, 37, is pursuing his 25th. The match was billed as a “clash of generations.”
Djokovic’s win secured his 12th semifinal appearance at Melbourne Park, where he will face Zverev, who defeated Tommy Paul earlier in the day.
While Alcaraz aspires to complete a career Grand Slam, Djokovic remains focused on adding to his record-breaking resume.
He dismissed recent distractions, including a public spat with Australian broadcasters, and made clear his priorities lie with the majors.
“I was ready to focus on facing Alcaraz,” Djokovic said after receiving apologies from the broadcaster.
Despite battling injury, Djokovic remains the favorite for the title, continuing to defy age and challenges.
