Novak Djokovic defeated Carlos Alcaraz in four sets to advance to the semifinals of the 2025 Australian Open. The highly anticipated quarterfinal clash saw two of the biggest names in tennis face off, with the Serb emerging victorious, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. Djokovic’s win secured him a spot in the last four, where he will meet Germany’s Alexander Zverev.
This tournament marks the first time Djokovic has worked with Andy Murray as part of his coaching team. After retiring from tennis in 2024, Murray joined Djokovic’s team during the off-season and has since become an integral part of his setup, helping Djokovic reach the semifinals in Melbourne.
Always respected for his sportsmanship, Murray once again showed why he is so highly regarded in the tennis world. After Djokovic’s victory, Murray took time to console Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open gym as the Spaniard cooled down after his defeat.
A touching moment was captured as Murray shook Alcaraz’s hand while the young player warmed down on a bike, demonstrating the professionalism and respect Murray brings to the sport. The gesture highlighted Murray’s role as a mentor and the camaraderie he fosters within the ATP Tour.
Speaking after his win, Djokovic praised his new coach for his dedication and support since joining the team. “I feel more and more connected with Andy [Murray] every day,” Djokovic said. “We face challenges every single day, and he’s been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be.”
Djokovic went on to explain why he embraced Murray after his victory, citing deep appreciation for the work Murray has done. “It was a gesture of appreciation, respect for him, and the fact that he’s out there. He doesn’t need to be. He accepted to work with me, and this was a huge win for all of us,” Djokovic added.
While Murray is now on Djokovic’s team, their history on Rod Laver Arena includes five head-to-head encounters at the Australian Open, all of which Djokovic won. These included four Grand Slam finals, with their last showdown in Melbourne coming in a five-set thriller in the 2012 semifinals.
For Alcaraz, Tuesday’s defeat was his first taste of Djokovic’s dominance in Melbourne. The young Spaniard now joins Murray in having faced Djokovic without securing a win at the Australian Open, as the Brit and Alcaraz share a combined 0-6 record against Djokovic at the tournament.
Djokovic will continue his pursuit of another Australian Open title when he takes on Alexander Zverev on Friday, January 24.
