Novak Djokovic overcame a first-set deficit and a suspected injury to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in a dramatic Australian Open quarterfinal, setting up a semi-final clash with Alexander Zverev. Alcaraz's frustration with Djokovic's tactics was evident in his mimicry of the Serb's apparent injury, prompting discussion among commentators.
Novak Djokovic's path to victory has become a familiar pattern in recent years: appearing hampered by injury, dropping a set, calling a medical time-out, and then returning to overpower his opponent. In his Australian Open quarterfinal against Carlos Alcaraz on Tuesday night, commentators suggested Djokovic's tactics - if you can call them that - frustrated the young Spaniard to the point of mocking the Serb.
Alcaraz, 16 years Djokovic's junior, appeared to mimic Djokovic's earlier hindered movement during the change of ends after the third set. This prompted American commentary duo and former players James Blake and John McEnroe to remark on Alcaraz's apparent frustration and mimicry. Djokovic, despite having his left thigh heavily strapped after losing the first set, outlasted Alcaraz in a 3 hour and 37 minute match, winning 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. The 37-year-old Serb moved into the semi-finals for a 12th time at Melbourne Park, second only to Roger Federer's 15 appearances. This victory also extended Djokovic's record for most Grand Slam semi-final appearances to 50, four ahead of Federer.To reach the final and close in on a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, Djokovic will face second seed Alexander Zverev in the semifinals. Zverev secured his spot with a 7-6 (7/1), 7-6 (7/0), 2-6, 6-1 win over American 12th seed Tommy Paul. Djokovic acknowledged his physical concerns, but emphasized his mental and emotional motivation for the upcoming match. Alcaraz, while acknowledging Djokovic's dominance, expressed regret over missed opportunities in the second set and his inability to push the veteran further.
NOVAK DJOKOVIC CARLOS ALCARAZ AUSTRALIAN OPEN TENNIS ALEXANDER ZVEREV GRAND SLAM INJURY SEMI-FINALS
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