Alex de Minaur reacts to what Novak Djokovic has said about him after he reaches the fourth round of the Australian Open
Alex de Minaur is aiming to reach the quarter-finals of the Australian Open for the first time in his career. As the last remaining Aussie in the tournament, the nation’s hopes rest squarely on his shoulders.
Currently ranked No. 8 in the world, de Minaur has been in excellent form this year, dropping just one set on his path to the last 16. He began his campaign by defeating Botic van de Zandschulp in the first round, followed by a win over Tristan Boyer in the second, before facing Francisco Cerundolo. Though he lost the opening set against Cerundolo, the 25-year-old battled back to win in four sets, securing his spot in the next round.
Ahead of his third-round match, Novak Djokovic had praised de Minaur’s recent improvements, predicting great things for him in the tournament. After his win over Cerundolo, de Minaur responded to Djokovic’s kind words.
“It’s very nice to hear compliments from someone like Novak, who’s virtually perfect in every aspect of his game,” de Minaur said in his post-match press conference. “It’s always nice to know that others are noticing the work you put in behind the scenes.”
Reflecting on his progress, de Minaur explained how this year feels different from previous ones. “In the past, on days like today when I wasn’t playing my best, I might have found a way to lose,” he said. “But this version of me competes till the end, and I’ll be a tough opponent for anyone.”
With a 5-7, 7-6, 6-3, 6-3 victory over Cerundolo, de Minaur advanced to the Australian Open last 16 for the fourth consecutive year, now setting his sights on a maiden quarter-final appearance.
Standing in his way is 20-year-old American Alex Michelsen, who has impressed by defeating big names like Stefanos Tsitsipas and Karen Khachanov. The two players have met twice before, each winning one match, and de Minaur knows he’s in for a tough battle.
“He’s been playing really well and has a lot of confidence,” de Minaur said. “He’s going to come out with no fear, and I’ll do my best to make it difficult for him.”
De Minaur and Michelsen will face off on Monday, January 20, for a place in the Australian Open quarter-finals.
