By Kwame Bediako
Novak Djokovic showcased his resilience and skill by defeating Carlos Alcaraz with a score of 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. The match, which lasted three hours and 37 minutes, took place on the iconic Rod Laver Arena, where Djokovic has established a remarkable legacy. Despite entering the match as the underdog, the 37-year-old Serbian proved that he remains a formidable force in men’s tennis, even against the rising stars of the sport.
The match began with a surprising twist as Alcaraz, the third seed, took the first set 6-4. Utilizing his signature drop shots effectively, the 21-year-old Spaniard capitalized on Djokovic’s early struggles, which included a medical timeout for an upper left leg issue. Alcaraz’s aggressive play and 13 winners in the opening set set the tone for what many expected to be a tightly contested battle.
However, Djokovic’s experience shone through as he made crucial adjustments to his game. After a sluggish start, the 24-time Grand Slam champion began to dominate the baseline exchanges, hitting with depth and precision. He quickly took control of the second set, breaking Alcaraz’s momentum and winning it 6-4, leveling the match and shifting the dynamics in his favor.
As the match progressed, Djokovic continued to apply pressure, showcasing his trademark aggressive style. He broke Alcaraz twice in the third set, winning it decisively 6-3. With each passing game, Djokovic’s confidence grew, and he maintained his composure against the young Spaniard, ultimately sealing the match in the fourth set with a score of 6-4.
With this victory, Djokovic advances to the semifinals, where he will face second seed Alexander Zverev. The Serbian holds an 8-4 record against Zverev, including a perfect 3-0 in Grand Slam encounters.
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