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Djokovic displays unwavering resolve, setting up a final showdown with Alcaraz
The Australian Open, often branded the ‘Happy Slam,’ has faced criticism this year for failing to deliver classic encounters.
A perceived scarcity of compelling matches and dramatic moments had led to complaints that the Melbourne event had fallen short of expectations.
However, the action on Day 13 injected renewed excitement into the season’s inaugural major.
Carlos Alcaraz’s remarkable victory over Alexander Zverev in Friday’s first men’s semi-final initially appeared to be the highlight.
Yet, Novak Djokovic, never one to play second fiddle, had different plans.
The indomitable 38-year-old produced a stunning performance, defying expectations to defeat Jannik Sinner in the second semi-final and seize the spotlight.
“I watched Alcaraz v Zverev, what an incredible match. We tried to match that intensity,” Djokovic remarked to the Melbourne crowd.
“I think you guys got your value for money on the tickets, that’s for sure. I want 10% from tonight’s tickets sold!”
The second week of the Australian Open had been largely devoid of suspense, with top seeds progressing through the men’s and women’s singles draws in a series of comfortable victories.
Alcaraz’s triumph over Zverev marked only the fourth match from the round of 16 onward – across both draws – to extend beyond straight sets.
Another quickly followed. Djokovic emerged victorious from a pulsating contest, leaving Serbian fans celebrating at Melbourne Park well into the early hours.
“I first watched Novak here when I was nine years old – this is the most amazing feeling I’ve had,” said 27-year-old Sasha Stanisic, who was among the hundreds watching on a big screen outside Rod Laver Arena.
“For me, this is a close second among his greatest achievements – just behind his win in the 2019 Wimbledon final against Roger Federer. It’s been a special night.”
Djokovic’s improbable win – particularly given his age and perceived physical limitations – thwarted the possibility of another Grand Slam encounter between Alcaraz and Sinner, who many had anticipated would meet in a fourth consecutive major final.
Instead, the final will feature a third clash for a major title between Djokovic and Alcaraz, following their Wimbledon finals in 2023 and 2024.
Both players are vying for historic milestones. Djokovic is one step away from claiming a record-breaking 25th major title, while 22-year-old Alcaraz aims to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam.
Before Sunday’s highly anticipated final, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina will compete in the women’s singles final on Saturday.
A showdown between two of the WTA Tour’s most powerful players promises to be a captivating affair.
With compelling storylines and star athletes involved, the Australian Open appears poised to conclude on a high note – a welcome turn of events after a slow start.
“This tournament hadn’t really set on fire. So this special day with two epic matches is what we had been waiting for the whole fortnight,” former British number one Annabel Croft said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
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Adding to the day’s drama was the question of Alcaraz’s physical condition.
Alcaraz defended his decision to take a medical timeout against Zverev, after the latter suggested that the Spaniard had received preferential treatment.
Alcaraz appeared to be cramping at 5-4 in the third set and was permitted to consult with the physio, despite Grand Slam regulations prohibiting medical timeouts for muscle spasms.
While players are allowed a three-minute timeout for physical injuries or illness, cramping is typically considered a conditioning issue rather than a medical one.
Alcaraz went on to lose the set before prevailing in a five-hour classic, 6-4 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (3-7) 6-7 (4-7) 7-5, as the Australian Open sprang to life.
“I didn’t think it was cramp at the beginning,” Alcaraz explained.
“I went to run to the forehand side and I started to feel the right adductor. [The physio] decided to take the medical timeout.”
Both men’s Grand Slam semi-finals went to five sets for the first time since Wimbledon 2018.
Despite downplaying the issue, Alcaraz’s consumption of pickle juice – a liquid believed to alleviate cramping more effectively than water – suggested otherwise.
Zverev expressed his frustration, accusing officials of favoring Alcaraz.
Third seed Zverev later reiterated his disapproval of the decision, though he adopted a more diplomatic tone.
“To be honest, I don’t want to talk about this right now, because I think this is one of the best battles there ever was in Australia. It doesn’t deserve to be the topic now,” said the 28-year-old, whose pursuit of a maiden Grand Slam title continues.
Alcaraz stated that retiring from the match was never a consideration, adding, “I just hate giving up.”
Alcaraz has a tattoo on his wrist which is a tribute to the family phrase coined by his grandad – ‘Cabeza, corazón y cojones’.
If you don’t understand Spanish it is perhaps better you search online for the literal translation of a motto which Alcaraz abides by.
In summary, the phrase signifies the capacity to demonstrate intellect, passion, and courage in challenging circumstances.
Alcaraz once again exemplified these qualities, digging deep to overcome Zverev and secure his place in a first Melbourne final.
“When I was younger, there were a lot of matches that I just didn’t want to fight any more or I gave up. Then I got mature,” he said.
“I hate that feeling [of giving up] after all.
“Every step more, every one second more of suffering, one second more of fighting is always worth it.
“That’s why I just fight until the last ball and always believe that I can come back in every situation.”
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