Alexander Zverev produced a stunning display of power and precision to secure a spot in the Australian Open semifinals by defeating the talented Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling match that showcased the best of men's tennis.
The sixth-seeded Zverev had a commanding presence on the court from the outset, establishing an early lead over the No. 2-ranked Alcaraz. Zverev's first-set performance was nothing short of dominant, as he got an astonishing 16 of his 18 first serves into play and won the point on all but two of them. He needed just 29 minutes to close out the set with a score of 6-1.
The second set continued in a similar fashion, with Alcaraz struggling to find an answer to Zverev's relentless power and precision. Alcaraz had break points in the sixth game but couldn't convert, and Zverev capitalised on his chances with two service breaks to lead 2-0 in sets.
As the match entered the third set, Zverev was serving for the match at 5-3, and it seemed like the end was near. However, Alcaraz had other plans. In a stunning turn of events, he managed to break Zverev's serve for the first time, leveling the set at 5-5. Alcaraz continued to fight and eventually won the third set in a tiebreaker, displaying his never-say-die attitude and incredible skill.
The fourth set was a rollercoaster ride, with both players giving it their all. Zverev managed to break Alcaraz's serve once again, and this time, he didn't let the opportunity slip away. He closed out the match with a 6-4 victory in the fourth set, securing his place in the semifinals.
For Zverev, this victory held special significance as it marked his first win over a top-5 player at a Grand Slam event. The reward for his exceptional performance was a spot in the semifinals at a major tournament for the seventh time in his career.
Medvedev beats Hukacz
Zverev's next challenge will be two-time Australian Open finalist Daniil Medvedev, who also had to battle through a tough quarterfinal match to secure his spot in the semis. Medvedev faced off against ninth-seeded Hubert Hurkacz and emerged victorious in a marathon encounter that lasted over four hours.
The match between Medvedev and Hurkacz featured intense rallies, remarkable shot-making, and a level of endurance that showcased the physical and mental toughness of both players. Medvedev, the No. 3 ranked player in the world, showed incredible resilience as he weathered Hurkacz's spirited comeback attempts.
After leading 4-2 in the fourth set, Medvedev faced a determined Hurkacz who managed to force a fifth set. The tension in the stadium was palpable as both players fought fiercely for every point.
In the end, it was Medvedev who managed to secure the decisive break in the seventh game of the fifth set. With his victory, he advanced to the semifinals at Melbourne Park for the third time in four years, setting up a highly anticipated clash with Zverev.
Australian Open Women's Singles semifinalists
In the women's draw, the semifinal lineup is equally intriguing. Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka will face off against U.S. Open winner Coco Gauff in a highly anticipated matchup. Gauff, at just 19 years old, is on a 12-match winning streak in majors and will be looking to continue her impressive run.
On the other side of the women's draw, Zheng Qinwen and Dayana Yastremska have emerged as surprise contenders. Zheng displayed remarkable resilience, winning 10 of the last 11 games to fend off Anna Kalinskaya in a thrilling three-set battle. Yastremska, a Ukrainian qualifier, secured her spot in the semifinals with a solid performance against Linda Noskova.
(Inputs by PTI, Powered by AI)
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