Novak Djokovic continues to excel with age, showcasing his unmatched determination and skill. The 24-time Grand Slam champion kept his pursuit of an 11th Australian Open title alive with an impressive comeback victory against third seed Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s singles quarterfinal on Tuesday, January 21.
Djokovic triumphed with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 win, marking a significant milestone by securing his 50th Grand Slam semifinal appearance. This victory reaffirms his ability to compete at the highest level, silencing critics after a challenging previous season dominated by rising stars Jannik Sinner and Alcaraz.
Novak Djokovic Reaches Australian Open Semifinals
Novak Djokovic showcased his enduring brilliance by triumphing over Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling Australian Open quarterfinal in Melbourne on Tuesday. The 37-year-old Serbian legend remains on track for his 11th Australian Open title, with Alexander Zverev awaiting him in the semifinals.
Despite battling through the match with his left thigh heavily strapped, Djokovic overcame the 21-year-old Spaniard in an intense 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 clash that lasted 3 hours and 37 minutes. This remarkable victory marks his 12th semifinal appearance at Melbourne Park, second only to Roger Federer’s record of 15.
Also Read: India team for Champions Trophy 2025
Djokovic’s Stunning Comeback Against Alcaraz
Novak Djokovic kicked off the year at the first Grand Slam as the seventh seed, facing Alcaraz in the quarterfinals. He needed a strong start to the season, and the 24-time Grand Slam champion delivered a stunning comeback. After losing the first set, he fought back in a thrilling match lasting 3 hours and 37 minutes at the Rod Laver Arena.
With Andy Murray joining his coaching team earlier in the year, Novak Djokovic showed impressive court coverage and power, matching the 21-year-old Alcaraz. His unwavering belief, combined with his exceptional defense, turned the match in his favor. A crucial rally at the end of the third set shifted the momentum as Djokovic took a 2-1 lead.
Djokovic last defeated Alcaraz in a Grand Slam match during the 2023 Roland Garros semi-final. However, he lost to Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final that same year and faced another heavy defeat in a London final before overcoming him in the Paris Olympics final.
Alcaraz has much to reflect on after a challenging few months. The four-time Grand Slam champion exited the US Open in the second round and struggled to progress past the group stage at the ATP Finals, ending an exhausting season.
In their latest encounter, Alcaraz used drop shots effectively to outmaneuver Djokovic in the first set, played in difficult, windy conditions. Djokovic took a medical timeout for a left leg issue at 4-5, while Alcaraz dominated with 13 winners compared to Djokovic’s three, taking the opening set 6-4.
However, Djokovic responded in the second set, increasing his aggression from the baseline despite his physical limitations. He leveled the match by shortening the rallies and hitting his 11th winner of the set. In the third set, Djokovic maintained his attacking style, dictating play and capitalizing on Alcaraz’s errors, particularly on serve.
Novak Djokovic Advances to Australian Open Semifinals
Carlos Alcaraz was down 3-5, but despite a strong effort, he couldn’t break back as Novak Djokovic held his composure in key moments. Alcaraz fought hard, saving a break point at 4-2 in the fourth set after winning a 33-shot rally. However, Djokovic’s experience shone through, winning his third straight set to reach the semifinals of the first Grand Slam of the year.
Djokovic is now just two victories away from claiming a record 11th Australian Open title and his 25th Grand Slam. Although he dropped sets in his first two matches, he dominated in the later rounds, defeating Tomas Machac and Jiri Lehecka in straight sets.
After struggling in major tournaments in 2024, Djokovic secured his first win over a Top 10 opponent in a Slam since his 2023 US Open victory, where he claimed his 24th Grand Slam title.
Next, Djokovic will face second-seeded Alexander Zverev, who secured his semifinal spot after defeating American Tommy Paul on Tuesday.
Also Read: Manchester United Icon Denis Law Died at the Age of 84
FAQs
Q.1. Who did Novak Djokovic defeat to reach the Australian Open semifinals?
Ans. Djokovic defeated third seed Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 quarterfinal match.
Q.2. What is the significance of Djokovic’s win against Alcaraz?
Ans. This victory marked Djokovic’s 50th Grand Slam semifinal appearance and reaffirmed his ability to compete at the highest level.
Q.3. How many Australian Open titles has Novak Djokovic won?
Ans. Djokovic is aiming for his 11th Australian Open title, a record-extending achievement.
Q.4. Who will Djokovic play next in the Australian Open semifinals?
Ans. Djokovic will face second-seeded Alexander Zverev in the semifinals.
Q.5. What challenges did Djokovic face during the match against Alcaraz?
Ans. Djokovic played with a heavily strapped left thigh and battled through tough conditions, but his resilience and experience led him to victory.
