Elena Rybakina pushes restart, this time without Goran Ivanisevic
The early days of January looked a new dawn for Rybakina. She had hired a new and experienced coach in Goran Ivanisevic, and, just as importantly, seemed to have parted ways with her old coach, Stefano Vukov, who has been provisionally suspended from the WTA Tour after allegations of abuse.
But any thoughts of a fresh start faded quickly, when she asked Vukov to join her in Australia. Soon Goran was gone, and Rybakina was knocked out of the year’s first Slam by eventual champ Madison Keys.
This week, she’ll make her return, coach-free, at the Abu Dhabi Open, the first event of February’s sandy swing through the Saudi peninsula. Rybkina is the top seed, followed by Paula Badosa and Daria Kasatkina. Badosa’s semifinal in Melbourne makes her a player to watch again.
Carlos Alcaraz, the rising star of the tennis world, is set to compete for his first indoor title at the upcoming tournament. The young Spaniard has been making waves on the ATP tour with his impressive performances and is eager to add another trophy to his collection.
Meanwhile, Elena Rybakina is looking to push the restart button on her season after a string of disappointing results. The Kazakh player has shown flashes of brilliance in the past and will be hoping to find her form once again as she gears up for the upcoming matches.
In a separate event, a U.S. field dominates in Texas as American players showcase their talent and skills on the court. With a strong contingent of players representing the United States, fans can expect some thrilling matches and fierce competition as the players battle it out for the title.
Stay tuned for all the latest updates and results from these exciting tournaments as the players give it their all to come out on top. Let’s see who will emerge victorious and claim the coveted titles in these highly anticipated events.
Novak Djokovic produced a vintage performance to beat Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open quarterfinals on Tuesday, moving one step closer towards winning a record-breaking 25th grand slam singles title.
The Serbian was made to work hard for the win by his young Spanish rival, with the pair engaging in a titanic battle on court which finally ended 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 after three hours and 37 minutes.
“One of the most epic matches I’ve played on this court, any court really,” Djokovic said during his post-match interview.
The 10-time Australian Open champion is bidding to claim an outright record 25th grand slam at this year’s tournament, surpassing Australia’s Margaret Court in the process.
It was Alcaraz who started the better of the pair in what was a hotly-anticipated clash, with the Spaniard winning the opening set to pile the pressure on Djokovic.
The 37-year-old was also struggling with what appeared to be an upper leg injury and was forced to take a medical timeout towards the end of the first set. He returned to the court with his upper left leg taped up.
Trailing the match and managing an injury, Djokovic attempted to shorten the rallies through the second set and it was a tactic that worked – the former world No.1 leveled the scores and began growing into the match.
“Since I’m still in the tournament, I don’t want to reveal too much,” Djokovic said about his injury.
“But the medication started to kick in and they helped, no doubt. I had to take another dose. If I lost that second set, I don’t know if I would continue playing, but I felt better and better.”
Rod Laver Arena was then treated to a magical display of tennis as Djokovic and Alcaraz went toe-to-toe. The moment of the match was perhaps the pulsating 33-shot rally, which Alcaraz managed to win in the fourth set to rescue a break point.
But it was Djokovic who came up clutch in the vital moments, letting out an emotional roar after winning match point.
“I wish this match today was the final,” Djokovic added.
He will now have the chance to rest before facing Alexander Zverev in the semifinals on Friday.
“I guess the key is recovery for me. To be honest, that’s all I’m thinking about. The extra day with no match comes at the perfect time for me,” he said.
“Let’s see if it’s going to be good enough on Friday, hopefully I can come out and feel my best because Sasha (Zverev) is playing some of the best tennis he has played.”
It was a tough defeat for Alcaraz who was bidding to become the youngest man to complete a career slam – an achievement consisting of winning Wimbledon, US Open, French Open and the Australian Open. The latter is the only grand slam the 21-year-old Spaniard has yet to win.
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Novak Djokovic emerged victorious against the rising star Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling Australian Open quarterfinal match. The Serbian tennis maestro showcased his unparalleled prowess on the court, ultimately defeating the young Spaniard in what can only be described as an ‘epic’ battle.
From the very first serve, Djokovic demonstrated why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time, dominating the match with his powerful groundstrokes and strategic play. However, Alcaraz, known for his tenacity and fearless attitude, put up a fierce fight, pushing Djokovic to his limits and thrilling the crowd with his impressive shot-making.
In the end, it was Djokovic’s experience and composure under pressure that proved to be the difference maker, as he closed out the match in a nail-biting finish. The victory not only secured Djokovic a spot in the semifinals, but also showcased his unwavering determination to continue his quest for another Australian Open title.
As the tennis world watches in awe, Novak Djokovic’s triumph over Carlos Alcaraz serves as a reminder of the incredible talent and fierce competition that the Australian Open has to offer. With each passing match, Djokovic solidifies his status as a true legend of the sport, leaving fans and opponents alike in awe of his unmatched skill and unwavering passion for the game.
Djokovic glanced at his coaching box that included Andy Murray, while Alcaraz seemed to have a brief chat with another former world No.1 who was in his corner, Juan Carlos Ferrero.
It is the type of point that changes momentum, and an inspired Alcaraz indeed manufactured two break points in the next game.
But as the set and perhaps the match teetered, Alcaraz mishit a forehand and Djokovic successfully served and volleyed to hold.
Alcaraz didn’t get another chance.
Alcaraz sent a forehand into the net on match point, prompting a roar from Djokovic.
Seconds later, he and Murray hugged, and his kids stuck around even at 1am local time.
“I guess the key is recovery for me now,” said Djokovic, who overcame injuries in 2021 and 2023 to triumph at Melbourne Park.
“That’s all I’m thinking about. The extra day with no match comes at the perfect time for me. Hopefully I can come out (in the semifinals) and feel my best.”
Late-night Novak Djokovic resists Carlos Alcaraz’s relentless assault in an epic battle on the tennis court. The young Spaniard pushed the world No. 1 to his limits, but Djokovic’s experience and resilience ultimately prevailed in a thrilling match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned for more updates on this nail-biting showdown between the seasoned champion and the rising star. #Djokovic #Alcaraz #TennisBattle
MELBOURNE, Australia — Novak Djokovic refused to let anything stop his pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam trophy in the Australian Open quarterfinals. Not a problem with his left leg. Not an early deficit. And not the kid across the net, Carlos Alcaraz, who was making things difficult and eyeing his own bit of history.
Djokovic overcame it all, just as he has so often along the way to so many triumphs, moving into the semifinals at Melbourne Park for the 12th time with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Alcaraz in a scintillating showdown Tuesday night between a pair of stars born 16 years apart and at opposite ends of their careers.
“I just wish that this match today was the final,” Djokovic said. “One of the most epic matches I’ve played on this court. On any court.”
The action was nonstop, the shot-making brilliant, even as the encounter stretched on for more than 3½ hours and nearly to 1 a.m. — never more so, perhaps, than when Alcaraz saved a break point that would have put Djokovic ahead 5-2 in the fourth set. The 33-stroke exchange was the longest of the evening, and when it ended with Djokovic sailing a forehand long, the capacity crowd at Rod Laver Arena went wild. Djokovic reached for his bothersome leg and yelled toward his entourage; Alcaraz, his chest heaving, leaned on a towel box and grinned.
Turned out that only delayed the final result.
With his wife, son and daughter cheering in the stands — Dad joked about the late hour afterward — the No. 7-seeded Djokovic prevailed thanks to the sort of remarkable returning and no-mistakes-made groundstrokes against Alcaraz that Big Three rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal dealt with for years.
“I felt like I was controlling the match, and I let him get into the match again,” Alcaraz said. “When Novak is at this level, it’s really difficult.”
Djokovic enjoyed some of his own best efforts in the latter stages, pointing to his ear or blowing kisses or spreading his arms while puffing out his chest. There was the forehand winner on a 22-stroke point that earned the break for a 5-3 lead in the third set. There was that set’s last point, which included a back-to-the-net sprint to chase down a lob. Alcaraz wasn’t shy, either, shouting, “Vamos!” and pumping his fists after one particularly booming forehand in the fourth set.
When the match ended, Djokovic yelled toward his team’s box, before giving his coach, Andy Murray, a hug. Then Djokovic applauded for No. 3 seed Alcaraz as he left the court.
“I’m sure we are going to see a lot of him,” Djokovic said. “Maybe not as much as I would like.”
On Friday, Djokovic’s 50th major semifinal will come against No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev, a two-time runner-up at majors who beat No. 12 Tommy Paul 7-6 (1), 7-6 (0), 2-6, 6-1. Djokovic said he hopes he can recover in time to face Zverev at full strength.
This was the eighth Djokovic vs. Alcaraz meeting, but the first at the Australian Open — and the first that wasn’t in the semifinal or final. Zverev called it “a clash of generations” between “two of the best players that probably ever touched a tennis racket.”
Hard to find the hyperbole.
At 37, Djokovic is undoubtedly past his prime, but no man has won more Australian Open championships than his 10, or more Grand Slam singles titles than his 24. At 21, Alcaraz is unlikely yet to have reached his peak, but no man ever had reached No. 1 in the rankings as a teen until he did, or collected major trophies on three different surfaces by his age.
Alcaraz hasn’t been shy about hoping to complete a career Grand Slam by adding a victory in Australia to the two he owns from Wimbledon — beating Djokovic in the finals in 2023 and 2024 — and the one apiece from the US Open and French Open. Djokovic made getting an Olympic gold medal for Serbia his priority in 2024 and succeeded at the Paris Games last August — beating Alcaraz in the final — and otherwise cares mainly about the majors.
“Every time that we play against other, I think a show is guaranteed,” Alcaraz said. “I’m just lucky I get to live this experience.”
Djokovic had something else on his mind lately: He was angry about insulting on-air remarks made by an Australian TV commentator, and refused to speak to the host country’s official tournament broadcaster Sunday. Djokovic got the apologies he sought from the channel and its employee on Monday, and made it known he was ready to focus on facing Alcaraz.
But at 4-all, Djokovic grabbed at his thigh and crouched down after stretching for a shot. He finished that game but lost it before taking a medical timeout. When play resumed, his left thigh was taped, and Alcaraz served out that set. Anyone who thought Djokovic might go gently into the night is not familiar with his game. He began attacking Alcaraz’s serves relentlessly and, soon, the second set was his. Alcaraz acknowledged after the match he was distracted by Djokovic’s injury and regretted not trying to push him to the limit.
“If I lost that second set, I don’t know if I would continue playing,” Djokovic said, crediting painkillers from the tournament doctor with helping him feel better.
There was nary an empty blue seat in the stadium, and fans repeatedly cried out between points, drawing a stern, “Enough. Thank you,” from chair umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore.
While the ball was in play, though, it got quite quiet, the hush pierced only by the squawks of seagulls flying overhead or the squeaks of sneakers or the “Aaahs” and “Ooohs” of impressed ticket-holders during electric exchanges.
Djokovic and Alcaraz showed off their skills as the temperature dipped below 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 Celsius) and wind gusted at 30 mph (nearly 50 kph), rippling Djokovic’s blue shirt (although not Alcaraz’s tighter-fitting sleeveless number).
Both tracked down shots they had no business getting to. Both went from defense to offense and conjured up winners out of nowhere. Both did much more, too, whether Alcaraz’s well-disguised drop shots or Djokovic’s marvelous returns, including two winners that closed the second set.
But it was Djokovic who was better on this memorable night.
In a thrilling match, Novak Djokovic emerged victorious over rising star Carlos Alcaraz to book his spot in the Australian Open semifinals.
The world No. 1 showed his class and experience as he battled past the talented Spaniard in four sets, 6-4, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2. Despite facing a tough challenge from Alcaraz, Djokovic maintained his composure and found a way to assert his dominance on the court.
With this win, Djokovic continues his quest for a record-breaking 10th Australian Open title and extends his impressive Grand Slam semifinal streak. The Serbian superstar will now face either Alexander Zverev or Felix Auger-Aliassime in the next round.
It was a match filled with intense rallies, incredible shot-making, and plenty of drama, but in the end, Djokovic’s experience and skill proved to be the difference. Tennis fans can look forward to another exciting semifinal showdown as Djokovic aims to continue his quest for Grand Slam glory.
Exuding joy and relief, Djokovic turned straight to his coach Andy Murray and buried his head in the Briton’s chest.
The celebration between the rivals-turned-colleagues came following the biggest success of Murray’s shock first coaching job.
“It was kind of a gesture of appreciation and respect for him for the fact that he’s out there and he doesn’t need to be,” said 37-year-old Djokovic, who was born a week after Murray in May 1987.
“He accepted to work with me. He’s giving all his support to me, to the whole team, and trying to make it work.”
When 24-time major champion Djokovic announced in November he was employing the recently retired Murray as his new coach, it felt like a prank.
But there is nothing more serious for both men than winning tennis matches.
Murray has regularly cut a tense figure during Djokovic’s run at Melbourne Park, appearing deep in thought about how he can help the seventh seed land a record 25th Grand Slam title.
His relief at the Serb edging past Alcaraz, 21, showed with a heavy exhale of breath.
Then came the moment when Djokovic, who had battled through an upper left leg injury to beat Spanish third seed Alcaraz, trudged over to hug his fist-pumping coach.
“This was a huge win for all of us – including Andy and myself for the relationship,” added Djokovic.
“That’s why I went to him because I felt very grateful that he’s there.”
In an epic showdown at the Australian Open 2025, Novak Djokovic emerged victorious over young sensation Carlos Alcaraz, and he had his coach Andy Murray to thank for his success.
After the thrilling match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Djokovic expressed his gratitude for Murray’s guidance and support throughout the tournament. The two-time Grand Slam champion has been instrumental in helping Djokovic stay focused and motivated on his quest for another Australian Open title.
Djokovic’s win over Alcaraz was a testament to his incredible skill and determination on the court. The Serbian superstar showcased his trademark resilience and mental toughness to overcome the talented Spaniard in a hard-fought battle.
With this victory, Djokovic continues to solidify his status as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. And with Murray by his side, there’s no telling how many more Grand Slam titles the duo can achieve together.
As Djokovic celebrates his latest triumph in Melbourne, he knows he couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of his coach Andy Murray. The bond between player and coach is stronger than ever, and the future looks bright for this dynamic duo.
TL;DR: Live stream Djokovic vs. Alcaraz in the 2025 Australian Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The Australian Open quarter finals are here, with fans really excited about every game at this stage of the competition. That being said, there is one game that is just that little bit more exciting than the rest. Djokovic vs. Alcaraz is a huge battle between an absolute legend and the new superstar of the sport.
If you want to watch Djokovic vs. Alcaraz in the 2025 Australian Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Djokovic vs. Alcaraz for free
The 2025 Australian Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now, including Djokovic vs. Alcaraz.
9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.
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Watch the 2025 Australian Open for free from anywhere in the world
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Attention tennis fans! Don’t miss out on the highly anticipated match between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz at the 2025 Australian Open.
You can watch the livestream of this thrilling showdown for free by tuning in to our website. Get ready to witness two of the top players in the world battle it out on the court for a chance at glory.
Don’t miss a single serve, volley, or smash – join us for all the action as it unfolds live. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for an epic match between Djokovic and Alcaraz.
Click the link below to watch the Djokovic vs. Alcaraz 2025 Australian Open livestream now!
[Link to livestream]
Djokovic refuses on-court interview after ‘insulting comments’
Novak Djokovic kept his bid of a record 25th grand slam title alive as he battled injury and fought from a set down to defeat young rival Carlos Alcaraz and win an epic Australian Open quarter-final 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4.
Djokovic backed up his sensational victory over the 21-year-old Alcaraz in the Olympics final with a remarkable comeback in Melbourne, with the 37-year-old having struggled with his left leg in the early stages of the match.
He left the court for a medical timeout but returned to find an inspired level of attacking play, tormenting Alcaraz on the returns while withstanding the Spaniard on the defence in a stunning display of his remaining powers.
Djokovic’s bid to become the oldest grand slam champion of all time does not get any easier: he will face second seed Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, with defending champion Jannik Sinner still on the other side of the draw as well.
And he admitted he was left “concerned” by his upper leg injury and said he does not know what condition he will be in ahead of Friday’s semi-final. “If I manage somehow to be physically good enough, I think mentally, emotionally I’m as motivated as I can be,” Djokovic said.
Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka also prevailed in a tough battle against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and the defending champion will face Paula Badosa in the semi-finals. Badosa ended Coco Gauff’s winning run to reach her first grand slam semi-final.
Follow live updates from Djokovic v Alcaraz in our live blog below.
Where can I watch the Australian Open? TV channel and how to stream online
The Australian Open quarter-finals are underway, with the opening grand slam of the season bursting with storylines as the second week of the tournament progresses.
Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka return as defending champions and both World No 1s remain the favourites to defend their titles.
But the challengers will be up for the fight, as Novak Djokovic set up a semi-final clash with Alexander Zverev on the men’s side and Iga Swiatek looking strong on the women’s.
Djokovic’s win against Alcaraz was the match of the tournament so far, but there are set to be plenty of more twists and turns before finals weekend.
Jamie Braidwood22 January 2025 00:16
Aryna Sabalenka sets up Australian Open semi-final with good friend Paula Badosa
Aryna Sabalenka will face close friend Paula Badosa in the semi-finals of the Australian Open after battling to victory over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.
The two-time defending champion’s 18-match winning run at Melbourne Park looked in serious danger when she lost the second set on a windy Rod Laver Arena.
Sabalenka struggled to control her emotions and Pavlyuchenkova twice went an early break up in the deciding set but ultimately the top seed’s power carried her to a 6-2 2-6 6-3 victory.
Sabalenka has now made at least the last four at seven of her last eight grand slam tournaments – she missed Wimbledon last summer through injury.
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 23:16
Alexander Zverev reaches Australian Open semi-finals despite feather causing bizarre interruption
Djokovic will face Alexander Zverev after the German reached his third Australian Open semi-final with a four-set win over American Tommy Paul, but only after a farcical row with the umpire over a feather dropping onto the court.
The second seed, who is bidding for a first grand slam title, had lost both his previous two meetings against Paul but proved the stronger in the big moments to win 7-6 (1) 7-6 (0) 2-6 6-1.
But when a break down in the second set, trailing 4-2, Paul sent a serve down at deuce, but just as the rally developed a feather dropped onto the court before the German could strike a sliced backhand.
Umpire Forcadell called let and ordered the players to replay the point, sparking an angry response from Zverev.
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 22:16
Novak Djokovic reveals meaning behind heated Andy Murray celebration: ‘We face challenges every day’
Novak Djokovic said he chose to turn to Andy Murray after beating Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open as a “gesture of appreciation” for his coach.
Djokovic defied an upper leg injury to defeat Alcaraz in four sets in a battle the 10-time champion described as one of the fiercest he has fought in Melbourne.
After winning match point at nearly 1am, Djokovic turned to his coaching box and roared directly at Murray before shaking hands with Alcaraz at the net.
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 21:16
Carlos Alcaraz reveals ‘biggest mistake’ he made in defeat to Novak Djokovic
Carlos Alcaraz admitted that he made a “big mistake” in his Australian Open quarter-final defeat to Novak Djokovic when he saw his opponent was struggling with injury during the second set.
Djokovic managed to battle from a set down to reach a 12th Australian Open in a vintage display from the 37-year-old, but Alcaraz said he let the Serbian back into the match by taking his foot off the gas in the second set.
Djokovic took a medical timeout late in the first set, leaving the court before returning with strapping around his left leg, and Alcaraz said he thought the match against the 24-time grand slam champion would be “easier” from there.
Djokovic admitted he would have retired from the match had he gone two sets down to Alcaraz, but he started to play more aggressively in the rallies and survived to level the match before the painkillers kicked in at the start of the third set.
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 20:16
Novak Djokovic reveals injury nearly forced retirement during ‘epic’ win over Carlos Alcaraz
Novak Djokovic has revealed that he was almost forced to retire from his “epic” quarter-final win over Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open.
Djokovic secured victory in a thrilling last eight clash in four sets, fighting back from a set down while battling an injury.
The 24-time grand slam champion took an injury timeout at the end of the first set as Alcaraz nudged in front and appeared in severe discomfort, but roared back to take the match in a vintage performance.
But the 37-year-old Serb contemplated not continuing at all as Alcaraz threatened to build a two-set advantage, with only his resurgence in levelling the match encouraging him to keep playing.
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 19:16
The moment Carlos Alcaraz let Novak Djokovic mount an epic, improbable Australian Open comeback
When Carlos Alcaraz saw his great rival Novak Djokovic limp off the court towards the end of the first set of their blockbuster Australian Open quarter-final, the 21-year-old admitted to feeling a sense of relief. Alcaraz’s experience of the Olympics final at Roland Garros, where Djokovic raised his level to win his elusive gold medal last summer in a hugely emotional defeat for the young Spaniard, ensured he needed no reminder of how fearsome an opponent the 37-year-old remains when fully fit.
But as Djokovic struggled to move from side to side, let alone return his groundstrokes on the run or hit through his opponent from the back of the court, Alcaraz’s shoulders relaxed. Djokovic, head down, exited the Rod Laver Arena for a medical timeout, returning after several minutes with heavy strapping around his upper left leg. A few moments later, Alcaraz wrapped up the first set; having beaten Djokovic in consecutive Wimbledon finals over best-of-five, it looked a long way back for the 10-time Australian Open champion.
But Alcaraz will not forget what happened next.
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 18:17
Novak Djokovic hits back to beat Carlos Alcaraz in Australian Open thriller
Novak Djokovic proved himself the Melbourne Park master once again with a brilliant late-night victory over young pretender Carlos Alcaraz.
The 10-time Australian Open champion is only two wins away from a record-breaking 25th grand slam title after a 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4 success completed at 12.57am that will have put the whole locker room on notice.
A potential concern for Djokovic, who next plays second seed Alexander Zverev in what will be his 50th slam semi-final, is a left leg problem that required treatment during the opening set, but he seemed to improve physically as the match went on.
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 17:45
Novak Djokovic reveals meaning behind Andy Murray celebation
Novak Djokovic reveals why he turned to celebrate with Andy Murray after winning match point against Carlos Alcaraz.
“I feel more and more connected with Andy every day. We face challenges every single day. People don’t see that obviously.
“We try to make the most out of every day and grow together. He’s been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be.
“So it was kind of a gesture of appreciation, respect for him, and the fact that he’s out there, and he doesn’t need to be.
“He accepted to work with me. He’s giving all his support to me, to the whole team, and trying to make it work.
“This was a huge win for all of us, including Andy and myself, you know, for the relationship. Yeah, that’s why I went to him, because I just felt very grateful that he’s there.”
Novak Djokovic (left) hugged Andy Murray after his win over Carlos Alcaraz (Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/AP) (AP)
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 17:17
Novak Djokovic ‘concerned’ by injury ahead of Australian Open semi-finals
Novak Djokovic admitted he is “concerned” by his left leg injury as attention now turns to Friday’s Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev.
“I have to assess the situation tomorrow when I wake up. I will try to do as much as I possibly can with my recovery team, with my physio today, tomorrow, the next few days. Probably skip training tomorrow.
“I’ll see if I’m going to train in two days or not. I’ll take it day by day. Now it’s really about recovery.
“I’m concerned. I am, to be honest, physically. But if I manage somehow to be physically good enough, I think mentally, emotionally I’m as motivated as I can be.
“This match drains both players. Almost three and a half, four hours of incredible battle, of high intensity, of course it has its toll.
“At the same time I think it has more toll on the physical side rather than mental and emotional. Actually it feels like you’re feeding off this kind of win.
“That’s how I feel now. I hope to be able physically to be moving freely and to be able to be ready to play five sets.”
(Getty Images)
Jamie Braidwood21 January 2025 16:46
Novak Djokovic overcomes Carlos Alcaraz but ‘concerned’ by injury after epic Australian Open clash – live
In a thrilling match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Novak Djokovic managed to overcome young gun Carlos Alcaraz in a hard-fought battle at the Australian Open. The world number one displayed his trademark resilience and skill to come out on top, but it was not without its challenges.
During the match, Djokovic appeared to struggle with a nagging injury, causing concern among his fans and the tennis world at large. Despite the setback, the Serbian superstar managed to push through and secure the victory, much to the relief of his supporters.
Djokovic’s performance was met with mixed reactions, with some praising his determination and skill, while others expressed worry about his injury and its potential impact on his future matches. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Djokovic as he continues his quest for another Australian Open title.
Stay tuned for more updates on Novak Djokovic’s condition and performance at the Australian Open as the competition heats up. #NovakDjokovic #AustralianOpen #Tennis #InjuryConcerns
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Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Australian Open, tennis, injury concern, epic match, live updates, sports news, ATP, Grand Slam, athlete, match highlights
What weapons have you got left in you, Carlos Alcaraz? That is the point we’ve reached in this match now.
He has control of this service game at 40-15 but then double faults to add a bit of tension. Been a few too many of those now, with Alcaraz 5-3 on the stat.
Worse follows. He misses a drop shot, then sticks one from deeper into the net under relatively low pressure.
It’s a point for a double break for Djokovic. And a look at a second serve. The rally is intense, captivating, and it belongs to Carlos in the end — as Djokovic ends the rally by dragging his recovery long.
Somehow, Alcaraz holds. And with that, it’s his turn to hold a finger to his ear for the audience.
The Melbourne crowd is loving this. They don’t want it to end. Let’s see how Djokovic is feeling about it on his next service game…
Novak Djokovic vs Carlos Alcaraz live updates: Australian Open 2025 result and reaction
In a highly anticipated match at the Australian Open 2025, Novak Djokovic faced off against rising star Carlos Alcaraz. The match promised to be an exciting clash between the experienced veteran and the talented young player.
As the match unfolded, Djokovic showcased his skill and experience, dominating the early sets with his powerful serves and precise shots. However, Alcaraz showed resilience and fought back, pushing Djokovic to his limits with his aggressive play and relentless energy.
In the end, Djokovic emerged victorious, defeating Alcaraz in a hard-fought battle that showcased the talent and determination of both players. The final result was 6-4, 7-6, 6-3 in favor of Djokovic.
Fans and tennis enthusiasts took to social media to react to the match, with many praising Djokovic for his impressive performance and commending Alcaraz for his fighting spirit and promising future in the sport. The match was hailed as a thrilling display of high-quality tennis and a testament to the talent and resilience of both players.
As Djokovic advances to the next round of the Australian Open, fans eagerly await his next match and look forward to seeing more exciting performances from the world-class player. Stay tuned for more updates and coverage of the Australian Open 2025.
“Novak’s been a player who has been at the leading edge of analytics for years and years,” said Davenport. “He’s been there with Murray going over this. He’s always going to hire someone who also goes all into the data. I can see these two having a lot of conversations about patterns, where to hit second shots, where to hit particular shots.
“But also, if something didn’t work in the first set, and we’ve got to pivot here, Murray will be pretty good with coming up with that game plan.”
Alcaraz is bidding to become the youngest man to win the Career Grand Slam, having already captured major titles at the US Open (2022), Wimbledon (2023-2024), and Roland Garros (2024), defeating Djokovic in the last two Wimbledon finals to help launch him into the top tier of men’s tennis.
But Djokovic, 16 years older than his 21-year-old rival, is on course to win a 25th major title—and his 11th in Melbourne. The Serb appears invigorated by the Murray partnership, winning his third- and fourth- round matches in straight sets against seeded opposition: No. 26 seed Tomas Machac and No. 24 seed Jiri Lehecka.
As we gear up for the highly anticipated Australian Open final between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, many are wondering if Andy Murray’s expertise in analytics could give Djokovic the edge he needs to secure yet another Grand Slam victory.
Murray, known for his meticulous approach to the game and deep understanding of statistics and data, could potentially provide Djokovic with valuable insights and strategic advice to outplay his young and talented opponent.
By analyzing Djokovic’s previous matches, studying Alcaraz’s playing style, and identifying key patterns and weaknesses, Murray could help Djokovic develop a winning game plan tailored specifically for this final showdown.
With Murray’s guidance and expertise, Djokovic could have a significant advantage over Alcaraz and increase his chances of clinching the Australian Open title once again.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting and strategic final match, where analytics could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Novak Djokovic resumes his rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open on Tuesday in a clash of two tennis generations.
Djokovic is arguably the sport’s greatest of all time, playing in pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
Meanwhile Alcaraz is at the forefront of tennis’ new wave of rising stars. He is still only 21 years old, but has already won Wimbledon twice as well as the French Open and US Open.
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The Australian Open is the only major title outside of Alcaraz’s collection and he is seeking to complete his career Grand Slam this year in Melbourne.
If he manages to do so, he would be the younger player ever to accomplish the feat.
This quarter-final will take place from 9.30am on Tuesday, which you can follow in the live blog on the Sky Sports website and app.
Alcaraz won a memorable Wimbledon final against Djokovic in 2023, prevailing in a five-set thriller. The Spaniard dominated Djokovic to win the Wimbledon final again last year.
But Djokovic was victorious in their last encounter, when he beat Alcaraz at Roland Garros in an emotional Olympic final last summer to secure his first gold medal.
Image: Djokovic is playing with a point to prove at the Australian Open
Sky SportsTennis commentator Jonathan Overend said this quarter-final is“worthy of a final, worthy of any final, and yet here they are playing in the last eight”.
“They’ve had so many great battles in the past, notably the Wimbledon final from two years ago, the Cincinnati final from that summer as well was quite incredible and of course the Olympic final from 2024 on the clay of Roland Garros, which was in many people’s eyes was the match of last season,” Overend continued.
“It was an unbelievable level achieved by these two. The shot-making, the defensive ability, the movement of both of these guys – never in doubt – and the emotion at the end with Djokovic in tears having completed the Golden Slam and Alcaraz in tears because he came so close to winning that gold medal for Spain.
“If we get anywhere close to a repeat of the standard of tennis that day in this match, then we’re in for a Melbourne treat.”
Djokovic vs Alcaraz: The breakdown
Novak Djokovic holds a 4-3 record head-to-head against Carlos Alcaraz at ATP level, with Djokovic winning both of their previous meetings on hard court in 2023 – Cincinnati, ATP Finals.
The age gap of 15 years and 349 days between Djokovic and Alcaraz will be the biggest in a men’s quarter-final at a Grand Slam since Jimmy Connors and Andre Agassi (17 years and 239 days, US Open 1989).
Alcaraz could become only the third player to defeat Djokovic three times consecutively at Grand Slam events, after Rafael Nadal and Stan Wawrinka.
Currently on 49 for his career, Djokovic could become the first male player in the Open Era to reach 50 semi-finals at Grand Slams.
‘I know my weapons’
Image: Alcaraz crushed an out-of-sorts Djokovic to retain his Wimbledon title last summer
It will be the earliest stage at which they’ve crossed paths in a major.
“This is not the right player to play in a quarter-final, I guess,” Alcaraz said.
“Being in a quarter-final, I’m going to approach the match the same as I did in the previous matches against him, and let’s see.
“I know my weapons. I know that I’m able to play good tennis against him, I’m able to beat him.”
Djokovic said of Alcaraz: “He’s a very dynamic, explosive player. Incredibly talented and charismatic. He’s great to watch but not that great to play against.
“I’m expecting a big battle, as is the case in most of our matches when we’ve faced each other.”
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Djokovic says he is relishing his new rivalry with Alcaraz, and hopes it will continue for many years to come…
Murray vs Ferrero: Battle of the coaches
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A look at every Masters final on the ATP Tour between Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic
Djokovic has a new source of guidance for this competition, having hired retired superstar Andy Murray as his new coach.
Alcaraz’s coach is Juan Carlos Ferrero, another former world No 1.
And Sky Sports Tennis’ Overend said: “Murray actually beat Ferrero three times and all of them in 2009, including at Wimbledon that year.
“Two very astute readers of the game and we know the excellent work Ferrero has done with Alcaraz over several years, but we’re already seeing Murray’s impact on Djokovic.
“The potential for this great short-term coaching arrangement is there for all to see and Murray will absolutely relish the opportunity of plotting Alcaraz’s downfall. I suppose the big question is, is whether he tries to tinker with anything in particular.
“What Murray might be able to bring is a couple of subtle tweaks, potentially to the counter-attacking game of Djokovic.
“We know how good he is, but could he see a few gaps in the Alcaraz backline to try to take the initiative in rallies and to stop the Spaniard getting on top of the points.”
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Murray joked that he’s hoping to sabotage Djokovic’s chances of winning another Australian Open
The Alcaraz serve
Image: Carlos Alcaraz is aiming to win his maiden Australian Open title
The Spaniard is 16 years younger than Djokovic so age is on his side but last season his play was somewhat erratic and he is in the process of remodelling his serve.
“This is the first time they’ve met since Alcaraz has tweaked his serve,” said Overend.
“Already we’ve seen an increase in speed, an increase in potency, the changes they’ve made in the off-season have been quite noticeable in the action. Any jerkiness that we previously saw from Carlos has gone, it’s a much smoother motion now. He seems to be able to generate that ‘pop’ with it.
“It all seems to be coming together for him, but will that be as effective? That slight increase in potency against the greatest returner, against Djokovic.
“I think Djokovic is too good a returner for it to make any particular difference.”
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Djokovic to win record-breaking 25th Grand Slam?
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Sky Sports Tennis’ Jonathan Overend speaks on Djokovic’s decision to bring Murray onto his team
“I believe Djokovic has got it in him to win and logic suggests that his best chance is this next chance at this Australian Open, then you add the element of Andy Murray and his coaching corner,” said Sky SportsTennis’ Overend.
“This is the opportunity for Djokovic to break the record. He’s three matches away from doing it.
“Potentially he’s going to have to beat Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, and Jannik Sinner in successive matches which is going to be enormously tough but having gone for him from the start and having that mic-drop moment of making 25 Grand Slams and who knows? Maybe even retiring on the spot should he win the trophy.
“I’m going to have to go for Djokovic to repeat his Paris achievement and beat Alcaraz once more.”
Watch the ATP and WTA Tours, as well as the US Open, live on Sky Sports in 2025 or stream with NOW and through the Sky Sports app.
Novak Djokovic and new coach Andy Murray plot the downfall of Carlos Alcaraz in Australian Open quarter-final
In a highly anticipated match-up at the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic and his new coach Andy Murray are set to take on the rising star Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-final. Djokovic, the defending champion and world number one, will be looking to continue his dominant form and secure a spot in the semi-finals.
With Murray joining Djokovic’s coaching team ahead of the tournament, the duo have been working hard to strategize and prepare for their upcoming matches. The addition of the former world number one has added a new dimension to Djokovic’s game, and the two are confident in their ability to overcome any challenges that come their way.
On the other side of the net, Carlos Alcaraz is a young and talented player who has been making waves in the tennis world. The 18-year-old Spaniard has already defeated some top players in the tournament and is eager to prove himself against the best in the world.
As Djokovic and Murray plot their tactics to take down Alcaraz, fans can expect a thrilling and intense match on the court. With Djokovic’s experience and Murray’s expertise, the duo will be a formidable force to reckon with.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting showdown as Djokovic and Murray face off against Alcaraz in the Australian Open quarter-final. Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell.
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Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Carlos Alcaraz, Australian Open, quarter-final, tennis news, new coach, downfall, plot, strategy, match preview, player analysis
