Novak Djokovic is one step closer to winning a record 25 Grand Slam titles after defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open on Tuesday.
The grueling match between one of the sport’s most iconic players and one of its rising stars lasted more than three and a half hours into the early hours of the morning. Djokovic, who advanced to his 12th semi-final appearance in Melbourne, He said he felt the match was worthy of a final.
Novak Djokovic, pictured, returns a backhand to Carlos Alcaraz during their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)
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“I just wish this match today was the final,” he said after his 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory. “One of the most epic games I’ve ever played on this court. On any court.”
Despite the age difference of 16 years, the confrontation between Djokovic and Alcaraz It has become reminiscent of the games played between the “Big Three”.
“Carlos brings a lot of energy and intensity on the court and always demands the best from his opponent so that he has a chance to beat him,” Djokovic said after the match.
Novak Djokovic, right, is congratulated by Carlos Alcaraz after his quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, early Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)
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“I’m sure we’ll see a lot of him,” he added. “Maybe not as much as I would like.”
At only 21 years old, Alcaraz is already a four-time Grand Slam champion. However, Djokovic, who should be considered in the twilight of his career at 37, is on track to create even more history.
His 10 Australian Open titles are more than any male tennis player. No one has won more Grand Slams than him with 24, and a victory in Melbourne will extend that record.
Novak Djokovic, pictured, celebrates after defeating Carlos Alcaraz in their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, early Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
Djokovic will face No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev on Friday.
