Carlos Alcaraz showcased true champion’s resilience in a gripping five-set saga, outlasting Alexander Zverev in a high-stakes semifinal showdown at Rod Laver Arena to reach his first-ever Australian Open final.
The world No.1 sealed victory in dramatic fashion, prevailing 6-4, 7-6(5), 6-7(3), 6-7(4), 7-5 after a punishing five-hour battle that tested both physical endurance and mental fortitude, keeping fans on the edge of their seats throughout.
Despite battling discomfort, Alcaraz dug deep under pressure, displaying elite composure and a warrior spirit to weather the storm and rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
“I always say you have to believe in yourself,” Alcaraz said after booking his spot in the championship match. “No matter what you’re going through, you must keep believing. It was one of the most demanding matches of my career. I put my heart into it and fought until the last ball.”
The opening sets unfolded as a tightly contested affair before Alcaraz shifted momentum with fearless shot-making, mounting a remarkable comeback after falling behind in the second set. Zverev responded with determination, forcing two tense tie-breaks and pushing the contest into a decisive fifth.
With the pressure at its peak, Alcaraz delivered a career-defining performance, breaking serve at 5-5 before closing out the match to record what now stands as the longest semifinal in Australian Open history a true masterclass in perseverance.
The Spaniard now stands one win away from completing a career Grand Slam and will face either Jannik Sinner or Novak Djokovic in Sunday’s final.
It was not just a win it was a statement victory on the biggest stage, marking a night etched into Australian Open history and underlining the rise of a true champion.
