Carlos Alcaraz produced one of the finest performances of his young career to defeat Alexander Zverev in a five-set thriller and reach his first-ever Australian Open final. The World No. 1 overcame an injury scare and immense pressure to prevail 6-4, 7-6(5), 6-7(3), 6-7(4), 7-5 in a marathon match lasting five hours and 27 minutes at Rod Laver Arena.
The 22-year-old Spaniard showed extraordinary resilience after letting slip a two-set lead, as Zverev clawed his way back to force a deciding set. The German even broke early in the fifth, appearing to have momentum firmly on his side. However, a visibly hampered but determined Alcaraz dug deep, broke back at 5-4, and completed a stunning turnaround to seal victory.
The match was filled with breathtaking rallies, fearless drop shots, and relentless baseline exchanges, showcasing both players at their physical and mental limits. Alcaraz’s courage and composure in the decisive moments ultimately made the difference.
With this win, Alcaraz becomes the youngest man ever to reach the final of the Australian Open while holding the World No. 1 ranking. He is now one match away from history — bidding to become the youngest player to complete the Career Grand Slam, a feat that would see him surpass even Rafael Nadal.
Zverev, meanwhile, suffers another painful Grand Slam heartbreak. Despit
e an illustrious career that includes Olympic gold, two ATP Finals titles, and seven Masters 1000 trophies, the Australian Open final continues to elude him.
Alcaraz will face either Jannik Sinner, the two-time defending champion, or Novak Djokovic, the 10-time Australian Open winner, in Sunday’s final. Regardless of the opponent, all eyes will be on Melbourne as history beckons for the Spanish superstar.