In a commanding display, Carlos Alcaraz booked his spot in the Australian Open 2026 semifinals, crushing Alex de Minaur 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 under the lights of Rod Laver Arena. The top-ranked Spaniard, reaching this stage for the first time, dictated every set with ruthless efficiency over 2 hours and 15 minutes.
De Minaur’s fiery home-crowd energy couldn’t pierce Alcaraz’s armor. The 21-year-old Spaniard absorbed the pressure, took a strategic breather, then unleashed a barrage of winners. This win solidifies his 6-0 edge over de Minaur since their rivalry ignited in 2022 and improves his AO record to 16-4.
“My consistency from day one has been key,” Alcaraz said afterward. “Patience was my team’s mantra, and I felt relaxed out there. De Minaur is a relentless fighter who pressures nonstop.”
As the eighth Spaniard to hit the quarters Down Under, Alcaraz now prepares for Alexander Zverev in a high-stakes semifinal rematch from 2024. Holder of six majors—including back-to-back French Opens (2024-25), Wimbledons (2023-24), and US Opens (2022-25)—he’s on the brink of his seventh and first in Melbourne.
Alcaraz’s aggressive style, sharp reflexes, and psychological edge make him a formidable force. A career Grand Slam beckons with two more victories, electrifying the tennis world as he chases history at Melbourne Park.
