Alcaraz battles past Zverev in epic five-set thriller to reach first Australian Open final

Carlos Alcaraz has reached his first-ever Australian Open final after producing a stunning comeback to defeat Alexander Zverev in a gripping five-set semifinal that lasted five hours and 27 minutes in Melbourne on Friday.

The world number one sealed his place in Sunday’s championship match with a dramatic 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), 6-7 (3-7), 6-7 (4-7), 7-5 victory, overcoming physical struggles and a late surge from the German to prevail in one of the longest matches in tournament history.

Alcaraz looked firmly in control after taking the opening two sets, showcasing his trademark aggression and composure under pressure.

However, the match took a dramatic turn midway through the third set when the Spaniard began suffering from severe cramps while serving at 4-4.

The 21-year-old required a medical timeout, and his movement and serve were visibly affected as Zverev seized the opportunity to claw his way back into the contest, forcing a decisive fifth set.

Zverev appeared on the brink of victory in the final set, earning the chance to serve for the match at 5-4. But Alcaraz showed remarkable resilience, breaking serve to level the score before breaking again to complete an unforgettable comeback.

The victory keeps Alcaraz on course to become the youngest male player in history to complete a career Grand Slam, should he lift the trophy on Sunday.

Speaking after the match, Alcaraz credited the Melbourne crowd for helping him push through the toughest moments of the contest.

“I always say that you have to believe in yourself no matter what. I couldn’t be here right now without these guys. The way you pushed me back into the match on every point is crazy,” Alcaraz said.

Alcaraz will now face either Novak Djokovic or Jannik Sinner in the final. Djokovic is chasing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, while Sinner is seeking his second major crown.