Alcaraz Defeats De Minaur to Advance to Australian Open Semi-Finals

Carlos Alcaraz advanced to his first Australian Open semi-finals with a commanding 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 victory over local favourite Alex de Minaur, keeping his career Grand Slam hopes alive at Melbourne Park. The 22-year-old Spaniard showcased efficiency over flair at Rod Laver Arena, ending De Minaur’s campaign as the sixth seed aimed to become the first homegrown men’s champion in five decades.

Alcaraz broke early to take a 3-0 lead, though De Minaur responded by breaking back and leveling the opening set before Alcaraz edged ahead to claim it. Alcaraz credited patience and focus for overcoming his opponent’s relentless retrieving style, noting the need to win points multiple times due to De Minaur’s pressure.

In the second set, Alcaraz quickly regained control, winning 6-2 with powerful backhand crosscourt winners, and maintained dominance in the third set to close out the match 6-1. He will face third seed Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, a rematch of their 2024 quarter-final, with Alcaraz aiming to improve on past results.

Alcaraz emphasized the need to elevate his level against Zverev, praising the German’s solid, aggressive game and strong serve, and expressed determination to play tactically and seek revenge.