Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the Australian Open semi-finals for the first time in his career with a commanding 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 win over local favourite Alex de Minaur on Tuesday, keeping his pursuit of a career Grand Slam alive at Melbourne Park.
The 22-year-old Spaniard prioritised efficiency over flair at Rod Laver Arena, ending the hopes of sixth seed De Minaur, who was bidding to become the first Australian men’s champion in five decades.
Alcaraz, a six-time major winner aiming to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam, faced resistance from De Minaur early on. The Australian broke back to level at 3-3 in the first set, but Alcaraz regained composure to edge the opening set.
“I’m really happy with the way I’m playing,” Alcaraz said. “I was increasing my level every match and talking with my team. After the first match, they said the level I want to play was going to come. I’m playing great tennis and really happy to get into the semi-finals.”
The second set saw Alcaraz dominate, hitting two precise backhand crosscourt winners to move 5-2 ahead and tighten his grip on the match. De Minaur’s resistance faded in the third set, allowing Alcaraz to close out the victory and set up a semi-final clash with third seed Alexander Zverev – a rematch of their 2024 quarter-final, which Zverev won.
“I have to increase my level,” Alcaraz said ahead of the semi-final. “I’ve seen him throughout the tournament and he’s playing great tennis. He’s solid, aggressive, and serving well. I have to be ready. He beat me in practice before the tournament. I have to play tactically really well. It’ll be a great battle and I’m looking to take revenge.”
