Novak Djokovic got a step closer to a record 25th Grand Slam title with a thrilling victory over the incredible Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open on Tuesday.

Djokovic defeated the young Spaniard 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4 in a gladiatorial battle to enter the semifinals, where he will play second-seeded German Alexander Zverev.

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At 37, Serbian Djokovic is already two clear of Rafael Nadal for most Grand Slams and could stamp his supremacy with an 11th Australian Open title with two more victories.

Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates after winning his quarterfinal match against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. Photo: Reuters/Kim Kyung-Hoon
Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates after winning his quarterfinal match against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. Photo: Reuters/Kim Kyung-Hoon

The 21-year-old Alcaraz was hoping to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam as he had already won the French Open and the Wimbledon, but he could not outsmart the veteran despite taking the first set.

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Djokovic even struggled with a minor injury, taking an off-court medical timeout in the first set. He returned with his left thigh taped up. Djokovic broke to lead 4-2 before taking the second and broke early in the third to take control, and did not relax thereafter.

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