Novak Djokovic bests Carlos Alcaraz in Australian Open matchup as he pursues historic 25th Grand Slam title

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Novak Djokovic is one step closer to claiming a record 25th Grand Slam title after defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open on Tuesday. 

The grueling match between one of the sport’s most iconic players and one of its rising stars went on for more than three and a half hours until the early morning hours. Djokovic, who advanced to his 12th semifinal appearance in Melbourne, said he felt the match was worthy of a final.

Novak Djokovic, pictured here, plays a backhand return to Carlos Alcaraz during their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

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"I just wish that this match today was the final," he said after his 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory. "One of the most epic matches I've played on this court. On any court."

Despite the 16-year age gap, the matchup between Djokovic and Alcaraz has become reminiscent of the matches played between the "Big Three." 

"Carlos brings so much energy and intensity on the court and always demands the best of his opponent in order for his opponent to have a chance to win against him," Djokovic said after the match. 

Novak Djokovic, right, is congratulated by Carlos Alcaraz following their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, early Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

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"I'm sure we are going to see a lot of him," he added. "Maybe not as much as I would like."

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