Australian Open: Carlos Alcaraz Sets Up semi-final Clash With Alexander Zverev

Carlos Alcaraz maintained his set-winning streak to reach the Australian Open semi-finals, eliminating Alex de Minaur in straight sets by 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 to set up a clash with Alexander Zverev. 

Minaur had an impressive start. He almost forced the opening set to the distance, but unforced a forehand at 6-5, giving Alcaraz his first first break point.  In the subsequent sets, the top seed was dominant, breaking seven times in total.

The world number one has never won an Australian Grand Prix title. In the last edition, he was eliminated by Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals. Having to meet Zverev in the semi-finals rekindles their rivalry from 2024 edition, during which he was eliminated by the German in an intriguing four sets, 6-1, 6-3, 6-7, 6-4. 

In a separate event, Zverev won the fourth round match against Leaner Tien, battling through two tie-breaks in a four sets clash, 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-1, 7-6(3). Zverev was making his fourth consecutive quarterfinals appearance in Melbourne. 

Just like the Spaniard, Zverev has not won a title in Melbourne. Also, he has never won a Grand Slam title in his career, despite making appearance in three Grand Slam finals. Last season, he made his maiden Australian  Open final appearance, but lost to Jannik Sinner in three sets.