Novak Djokovic let out a primal roar after downing Carlos Alcaraz to reach the semi-finals of the Australian Open – before making a beeline for his coach Andy Murray.
The Serbian great played out an all-timer against one of the challengers to his throne and dropped the first set but rallied back to win 3-1. He edged an epic final set 6-4 despite being hampered by an injury and the 37-year-old has his sights set on winning yet another major as he advances to the 50th Grand Slam semi-final of his career. The win meant a lot and marked another step in the right direction under the tutelage of his former rival Murray who has been in his corner since hanging up his own racket.
It was 1am local time in Melbourne when Djokovic finally got it over the line, celebrating the winning rally with a deafening roar probably heard in his homeland 14,000 kilometres away. The ensuing celebrations were wild as the foes turned pals embraced courtside after Djokovic ran over to celebrate with Murray.
Murray was then among those applauding when Djokovic returned to the court to speak to TV cameras. Asked how he managed to win, he said: “Well, me with my two legs and two arms, or one and a half leg.
“I want to say my utmost respect for Carlos and everything he has achieved in his career so far. Young guy, what a career, he is going to be there longer for me. I wish this match was the final.
“What a terrific guy he is and an even better competitor, the youngest No 1 in the world in history, four grand slams. I’m sure we are going to see a lot of him. He’s going to be there for sure longer than me. I just wish that this match today was the final, honestly.”
It’s Sacha Zverev up next for Djokovic and he concluded: “I don’t know if Sacha Zverev is still awake and watching this. One of the most epic matches that I’ve played on any court. I’m surprised that my kids are still here. When are you gonna sleep tonight?”
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