Djokovic Sets Up Epic Australian Open Final vs Alcaraz

Melbourne: Novak Djokovic will face Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open final after a thrilling five-set victory over reigning two-time champion Jannik Sinner on early Saturday.

The 38-year-old Serbian tennis star came from behind to defeat Sinner 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in a marathon match that ended at 1:32 am. Djokovic now aims to win his record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title against the 20-year-old Alcaraz in Sunday’s Melbourne title decider.

Alcaraz reached the final after overcoming German third seed Alexander Zverev in another intense five-set match, despite battling fitness issues.

Djokovic, whose last Grand Slam title was the 2023 US Open, showed his resilience and experience throughout the match. Sinner started strong, breaking Djokovic’s serve to take a 3-0 lead in the first set. Djokovic responded in the second set, breaking Sinner’s serve and leveling the match.

In the third set, Djokovic appeared physically drained, holding his chest and briefly collapsing into his seat, allowing Sinner to take the lead. But Djokovic bounced back in the fourth set, breaking Sinner’s serve to force a decisive fifth set.

The tension peaked in the final set, with Sinner missing several break points. Djokovic broke serve for a 4-3 lead, then held to move closer to his 11th Melbourne final. Sinner saved two match points, but Djokovic converted his third opportunity to seal the win.

With this victory, Djokovic ties Australian Margaret Court with 24 Grand Slam titles, bringing him one step closer to a historic 25th. Known as the “King of Melbourne,” Djokovic has won 10 Australian Open titles in his career.

Despite being underdogs at several stages of the tournament due to injuries and tough matches, Djokovic’s skill and determination proved decisive in reaching yet another Grand Slam final.