Australian Open 2026: Carlos Alcaraz and Yannik Sinner take on Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic in semi-finals

Alcaraz had never reached the quarter-finals in Melbourne before this year, but the 22-year-old looked likely to win the title and become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam.

Alcaraz succeeded at the U.S. Open in September, displacing Sinner at No. 1 in the world rankings, and in two weeks produced what most observers considered the best performance of his career.

The six-time Grand Slam champion said his performances at Melbourne Park so far have been “very close” to that standard.

He defeated Australian sixth seed Alex De Minaur in the quarter-finals with more power and nimble touch, brutally illustrating Alcaraz and Sinner’s lead.

It’s also a reminder of the importance Alcaraz places on improving concentration during games.

“Not having ups and downs in the game is one of my main goals,” he said.

“I’m just trying to play at the same level and have the same focus at every point.”

Zverev proved to be an awkward matchup for Alcaraz, with the two having split their previous 12 meetings.

The 28-year-old’s huge serve remains his greatest weapon and was particularly impressive in his victory over Alcaraz.

It’s also key to Zverev’s progress in Melbourne – and full recovery – as he looks to reach the final for the second consecutive year.

Zverev has lost all three of his Grand Slam finals and is often accused of being too passive in major tournaments.

“I’ve been working on my aggressive game. I’m working on the first shot after the serve, the first forehand after the serve, maybe more serves and volleys,” he said after defeating Learner Tian in the quarterfinals.

“If these things work for me, then I think success will come.”