Alex de Minaur is still digesting his Australian Open exit, having fallen to Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals.
Alcaraz overcame De Minaur 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 at Rod Laver Arena to reach the semifinals in Melbourne for the very first time.
De Minaur has never reached that stage of any Grand Slam, with another chance now disappearing after his Australian Open exit.
He was the last Australian player remaining in men’s or women’s singles, and has now shared his honest feelings following his defeat.
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Carlos Alcaraz sends classy message to Alex de Minaur
De Minaur posted on his Instagram: “It hurts right now. Losing at home is never easy. This tournament is a childhood dream. I’ll keep working and come back stronger next year.
“Congrats to Carlos Alcaraz good luck for the rest of the tournament. Thank you to everyone for the unconditional love and support.”
His latest opponent was quick to reply, with Alcaraz replying in Spanish with the words: “Eres muy grande Alex!”
It translates in English to “You are great Alex,” or “You are awesome Alex,” although De Minaur will understand the original thanks to his Spanish background.
Also among those commenting on the post was former player Diego Schwartzman, who posted two clapping emojis.
And there was also a reply from his fiancée and fellow player Katie Boulter, who commented: “We love you.”
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Carlos Alcaraz deserves praise for class act versus Alex de Minaur
Alcaraz has shown all of his class with the message, and indeed with his praise of the Australian on court immediately after their match.
But he also demonstrated his admirable nature during the clash, when De Minaur was hit with a time violation warning at 6-5 in the first set.
The home favorite was shocked by the decision from the chair umpire, but the Spaniard quickly jumped to his defence.
He admitted he’d caused the delay and told the umpire he wasn’t ready, which was a true act of sportsmanship from the ATP number one at such a key stage of the match.
Alcaraz will now turn his focus to a semifinal clash with Alexander Zverev, who knocked out American rising star Learner Tien in the quarterfinals.
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