Djokovic powers into Melbourne quarter-final showdown with Alcaraz
Ten-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic has stormed into the quarter-finals at Melbourne Park, setting up a thrilling clash with Carlos Alcaraz. The 37-year-old Serbian star defeated 24th seed Jiri Lehecka in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4), on Sunday in a dominant display at the Rod Laver Arena.
The victory marks Djokovic’s 15th appearance in the Australian Open quarter-finals, equalling the record held by Roger Federer. It also extends his all-time record to 61 Grand Slam quarter-final appearances, placing him ahead of Federer by three.
The Serb, chasing his 25th Grand Slam title, will now face 21-year-old Alcaraz, the third seed and a four-time Slam winner, who reached his first Australian Open quarter-final after British player Jack Draper retired injured during their match.
Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated showdown, Alcaraz acknowledged Djokovic’s incredible form. “When we see him play, he seems young again. It’s unbelievable. I’m ready and I know what to do in the quarter-finals,” Alcaraz said.
Djokovic and Alcaraz have met seven times, with Djokovic leading their head-to-head 4-3. However, this will be their first encounter at Melbourne Park, where Djokovic has won all 10 of his Australian Open titles.
Read also:Alcaraz dominates Djokovic to retain Wimbledon title
During his match against Lehecka, Djokovic broke the Czech player’s serve twice in the first two sets and held his nerve in a third-set tiebreak to seal the victory. Lehecka, who recently won the Brisbane International, was unable to replicate his earlier form on the big stage.
Meanwhile, Alcaraz’s opponent, Jack Draper, retired in their match due to physical struggles after gruelling five-set battles in earlier rounds. “It’s not the way I wanted to win, but I’m happy to reach another quarter-final,” Alcaraz said, expressing confidence in his physical condition heading into the next stage.
Djokovic’s dominance in Melbourne and Alcaraz’s rising star power set the stage for a gripping clash, as fans eagerly anticipate who will emerge victorious in this blockbuster quarter-final.
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