Carlos Alcaraz booked his place in his first-ever Australian Open semi-final with a commanding 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 victory over home favourite Alex de Minaur in Melbourne, delivering a statement performance as he continues his pursuit of a Career Grand Slam.
The opening set proved competitive, with De Minaur feeding off the Rod Laver Arena crowd and matching Alcaraz stride for stride from the baseline. The Australian defended superbly, retrieving relentlessly and forcing the Spaniard into extended rallies. However, Alcaraz’s ability to inject pace, vary angles, and accelerate through the court proved decisive late in the set, as he secured the crucial break to edge it 7-5.
From that moment onward, the world number one elevated his intensity and control. His forehand became increasingly dominant, dictating rallies and pushing De Minaur into defensive positions, while his improved serve efficiency limited the Australian’s attacking opportunities. Alcaraz also showcased his trademark court coverage and touch, mixing deep groundstrokes with timely drop shots to disrupt his opponent’s rhythm.
The second set saw Alcaraz seize full control, breaking De Minaur multiple times as he reduced unforced errors and tightened his return game. De Minaur struggled to find answers against the Spaniard’s relentless pressure, with Alcaraz winning a high percentage of points on both first and second serve to close the set 6-2.
By the third set, the contest had become one-sided. Alcaraz played with growing confidence and freedom, racing into a commanding lead as De Minaur battled physically but was unable to match the Spaniard’s pace and shot-making. The match concluded with Alcaraz dropping just one game in the final set, sealing a comprehensive 6-1 finish in just over two hours.
De Minaur, the last remaining Australian in the tournament, earned plaudits for his resilience and early resistance, but ultimately could not keep pace once Alcaraz shifted into top gear.
With this victory, Alcaraz moves one step closer to completing a Career Grand Slam, setting up a highly anticipated semi-final clash with Alexander Zverev, who earlier overcame rising American talent Learner Tien in four sets. The showdown promises to be a major test as both players chase a place in the Australian Open final.
