Djokovic beats Alcaraz in classic to reach semi-finals in Melbourne

24-time Grand Slam Champion Novak Djokovic recovered from losing the first set to beat Carlos Alcaraz to reach the Australian Open semi-finals. In an enthralling match it was 37-year-old Djokovic who claimed the victory 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4 at a local time of 12.57am.

Alcaraz is 16 years younger than his Serbian opponent, however his explosion onto the world stage has already created a generational rivalry. The young Spaniard beat Djokovic last summer to claim his second Wimbledon title. He was hoping to become the youngest player to secure a career Grand Slam in 2025. This accolade his currently held by fellow countryman Rafael Nadal.

Djokovic was supported by his new coach and former rival Andy Murray sat in the courtside box. Despite the victory there are concerns about his fitness ahead his semi-final match against Alexander Zverev. Djokovic required treatment for a left-leg problem at the end of the first set and was given pain killers to get through the rest of the match.

The final will be played on Sunday on the Rob Laver arena in Melbourne.