Novak Djokovic is into the Australian Open final, capping off what has been an extraordinary day of tennis in Melbourne.
Starting the day off with Carlos Alcaraz’s dramatic five-set win over Alexander Zverev, there was surely no way that such a remarkable show could be topped.
And yet, the 24-time Grand Slam champion was not to be upstaged, overcoming Jannik Sinner in his own five-set epic that lasted well over four hours.
Speaking on court immediately after the win, he fought back tears as he began chatting with Jim Courier.
Once he’d composed himself, he analysed an incredible day of tennis.
Novak Djokovic reacts after beating Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals
The Serbian began by admitting: “I am lost for words right now, to be honest. It feels surreal to be honest. Playing over four hours, over 2 am. Reminiscing in 2012 I played Rafa in the final, and that was six hours almost.
“But the level of intensity and quality of tennis was extremely high, and I knew that was the only way for me to have a chance to win tonight against him.”
Where does that performance rank out of Novak Djokovic’s best of all time?
Then, turning his attention to the recent struggles he has suffered against Sinner, Novak Djokovic continued: “He has won the last five matches against me. He had my mobile number, so I had to change my number for tonight.
“I told him at the net, thanks for allowing me at least one in the last couple of years!
“I have tremendous respect for him. Incredible player. He pushes you to the very limit, which is what he did tonight to me, so he deserves a great round of applause for his performance.”
Djokovic will now face Alcaraz in Sunday’s showpiece final, and both will be chasing their respective piece of history.
Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz are both chasing history in the Australian Open final
After a week and a half of underwhelming drama at the Australian Open, the men’s semi-final day provided enough drama and quality to fuel the entire tournament and more.
And, it provides us with a perfect storyline for Sunday, pitting youthful excellence against a legendary veteran.
Alcaraz will be desperate to complete the career Grand Slam, and will be the youngest player in tennis history to do so if he manages to beat Djokovic.
Djokovic, however, finally has his golden opportunity to win the record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title to move him ahead of Margaret Court.
Were the Australian Open too lenient with Carlos Alcaraz?
Whatever happens in two days’ time, we are guaranteed to witness greatness.
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