Carlos Alcaraz is enjoying his career-best run at the Australian Open, reaching the semi-final for the first time.
World no. 1 ousted five rivals in straight sets en route to the last four, including victories over Tommy Paul and Alex de Minaur.
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The six-time Major champion will now face world no. 3 and last year's finalist in Melbourne, Alexander Zverev. It will be their 13th duel in the previous five years, having built quite a rivalry over half a decade.
The Spaniard trailed 3-1 at the start of the their duels before turning the tables and winning three of the previous four encounters, including the most recent one in the semi-final of last year's Cincinnati Masters.
Alcaraz bested Alex de Minaur in the quarter-final and turned hs focus on the German. The Spaniard is eager to give everything on the court and advance to his first Australian Open final at 22.
If Zverev wants to cause an upset and prevent the world's best player from reaching his fourth straight Major final, he will have to sweat a lot and provide his best tennis.
Carlos Alcaraz, Australian Open 2026© Stream screenshot
They are 2-2 at Majors. In their only Australian Open clash two years ago, the German prevailed in four sets after a brilliant start and composed closure. Carlos is ready to turn the tables and extend his great Melbourne streak.
The 22-year-old has yet to lose a set Down Under this year, arriving with new weapons in his arsenal and using them wisely. He endured a couple of tough moments against Tommy and Alex to best them in three sets and preserve energy.
If they both bring their A-game, we should see a thriller at Rod Laver Arena. Zverev is eager to claim a notable win and remain on the title course, playing well in Melbourne this year and looking more dangerous than ever before.
"I will be ready for the next match. I'm excited to play Alexander in the Australian Open semi-final. I know what I have to do, and I will be well-prepared for that match. If he wants to beat me, he will have to sweat a lot," Carlos Alcaraz said.
