Friday’s Australian Open semifinal delivered pure theater as Carlos Alcaraz overcame Alexander Zverev in a five-set odyssey, punching his ticket to a historic first final.
Trailing in endurance after more than five grueling hours, the young Spaniard prevailed 6-4, 7-6(5), 6-7(3), 6-7(4), 7-5. Injury woes peaked when cramps sidelined Alcaraz briefly, sparking a heated exchange between Zverev and officials who permitted the timeout.
The 22-year-old’s physio session became a flashpoint, with Zverev protesting the rules allowing mid-game treatment for cramps. Tensions simmered, but sportsmanship prevailed post-match with mutual respect shown.
Alcaraz’s comeback was masterful. He navigated tiebreak losses in sets three and four before dominating the fifth with fierce baseline play and unyielding spirit.
Reflecting on the battle, Alcaraz said, ‘Belief is everything. This was physically brutal, one of my career’s hardest. But experience told me to stay passionate, fight every point, and trust the process. I’m proud of my comeback.’
The final pits him against the Djokovic-Sinner victor. Should Alcaraz lift the trophy, he’d shatter records as the youngest to claim all four majors.
Djokovic offered early props, and with Alcaraz’s form peaking, Melbourne buzzes with anticipation. This semifinal wasn’t just a match; it was a testament to Alcaraz’s unbreakable will, setting the stage for potential greatness.