Tue Jan 21 14:30:11 UTC 2025: ## Djokovic Stages Comeback to Reach Australian Open Semifinals

**Melbourne, Australia** – Novak Djokovic, a ten-time Australian Open champion, has battled past Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling quarterfinal match, securing a hard-fought 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory. The 37-year-old Serb, despite playing with a heavily strapped left thigh, overcame the world number three Spaniard in a three-hour, 37-minute epic.

Djokovic, visibly hampered early on, dropped the first set but displayed remarkable resilience, turning the match around with aggressive play and unwavering determination. The win marks his 12th Australian Open semifinal appearance and extends his all-time record for Grand Slam semifinal appearances to 50, four more than Roger Federer.

“I just wish that this match today was the final,” Djokovic said post-match, highlighting the intensity of the generational clash. He will face Alexander Zverev in the semifinals after the German secured his place with a win over Tommy Paul.

Djokovic’s next challenge will be Zverev, who reached the last four for the second consecutive year. “I guess the key is recovery,” Djokovic acknowledged, recognizing the physical demands of his upcoming match. “Hopefully I can come out and feel my best because Sascha (Zverev) is playing some of the best tennis he has played.”

The match was punctuated by several key moments, including a medical timeout for Djokovic after the first set. Despite the injury, he displayed exceptional skill and tactical prowess, ultimately overpowering Alcaraz in a gripping fourth set that included a stunning 33-shot rally. Djokovic’s victory propels him closer to a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.

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