MELBOURNE – World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz stormed into the Australian Open 2026 semifinals for the first time in his career, dismantling home favorite Alex de Minaur 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 in the quarterfinals at Rod Laver Arena. The Spanish superstar showcased flawless control throughout the 2-hour, 15-minute clash, never dropping a set and extending his perfect 6-0 head-to-head record against the Australian.
Alcaraz neutralized de Minaur’s aggressive baseline play with precise shot-making and unshakeable confidence. After a brief mental reset early on, he ramped up the intensity, dominating points from the back of the court. This victory boosts his Melbourne Park record to 16-4, marking him as the eighth Spanish player to reach the quarterfinals here.
Post-match, Alcaraz reflected on his form: “I’ve been playing at a high level since the first round, and my team advised me to stay patient. Today, I felt completely at ease on court. Beating de Minaur is tough—he keeps opponents under constant pressure.”
Now, Alcaraz faces Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the semis, a rematch of their 2024 quarterfinal encounter. With six Grand Slam titles already—two each at French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open—Alcaraz eyes his first Australian Open crown and a career Grand Slam, just two wins away. His blend of power, mental fortitude, and baseline mastery positions him as the tournament favorite.
The 21-year-old’s journey in Melbourne has been dominant, blending athleticism with tactical brilliance. Fans are buzzing about his potential to conquer the final hurdle in his quest for all four majors.