Novak Djokovic proved why he is one of tennis' greatest, overcoming injury to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open 2025 quarterfinals. The 37-year-old Serb, chasing his 11th title at Melbourne Park, secured a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 win after battling for three hours and 37 minutes.

In the first set, Djokovic struggled with a leg injury, requiring a medical timeout and returning to the court with his left leg heavily strapped. Supported by his coach Andy Murray, Djokovic showed no signs of backing down, engaging Alcaraz in intense rallies that drew cheers from the Rod Laver Arena crowd.

“How did I win? With my two legs and two arms, I guess. One and a half legs, in fact,” Djokovic quipped during his on-court interview. “If I lost that second set, I don’t know if I'd continue playing,” he added, emphasizing the mental and physical battle.

Alcaraz, the youngest-ever World No.1 with four Grand Slam titles, couldn't break his quarterfinal jinx at Melbourne Park despite a spirited performance. Djokovic praised his opponent, saying, “Carlos is a terrific guy and a better competitor. I wish this match was the finals.”

The victory also marked Djokovic's record-breaking 50th Grand Slam semifinal appearance, making him the first male to achieve the milestone. He now trails only Chris Evert’s 50 semis record overall.