After a grueling five-set battle, Djokovic ends Sinner's dominance and returns to the Australian Open final.

The lights of Rod Laver Arena pierced through Melbourne’s night as 38-year-old Novak Djokovic raised his arms high after the final point landed, igniting the legendary stadium once again. In the early hours of the next day local time, the Serbian star triumphed after 4 hours and 9 minutes in a five-set thriller, defeating two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. Ending a five-match losing streak against his opponent, Djokovic confidently advanced to the Australian Open men’s singles final. Just one victory away from his record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title and 11th Australian Open crown.

This semifinal was a masterclass in tennis competition. Djokovic struggled early, as Sinner took the first set 6-3 with precise baseline shots and agile movement, then surged again in the third set to lead 2-1. The situation was reminiscent of 2025, when Djokovic fell short in all Grand Slam semifinals. Yet the champion’s resilience remained unbroken. Facing 18 break points from Sinner, Djokovic saved 16 with iron will, turning the tide through sharp backhands and net play, ultimately sealing the final set 6-4.

In the post-match interview, Djokovic expressed heartfelt emotion:

“I’m so overwhelmed right now, it feels unreal.”

“The intensity and quality of this match were off the charts. He had beaten me five times in a row and knew my game inside out, so tonight I had to change my approach.”

Speaking of his opponent, Djokovic showed great respect:

“After the match, I told him at the net thank you for finally letting me win. He’s an incredible player who always pushes you to the limit. Tonight, he deserved all the applause from the crowd. The atmosphere and support here are definitely among my best moments at the Australian Open.”

This marks Djokovic’s return to a Grand Slam final since Wimbledon 2024 and his first five-set victory since narrowly defeating Cerundolo at the 2024 French Open.

The other finalist, Carlos Alcaraz, also endured a tough battle. The young Spaniard played a marathon semifinal lasting 5 hours and 27 minutes, defeating Zverev in five sets to reach his first Australian Open final. This match became the longest semifinal in Australian Open history, with Alcaraz showing extraordinary stamina and delivering numerous spectacular winners despite exhaustion.

Djokovic commented on his final opponent:

“I watched his match against Zverev — it was amazing. I couldn’t wait to get on court myself.”

“We both gave it our all tonight, but those two put on a fantastic show. After the match, I met Alcaraz, and he apologized for delaying my start. I told him this old body needs sleep. I’m really looking forward to facing him.”

This final is a pinnacle clash between the old and new kings — Djokovic, the record-holder for most Grand Slam titles in the Open Era, aims to break the monopoly Sinner and Alcaraz have held on nearly eight Grand Slam events, preventing them from becoming only the second pair to meet in four consecutive Grand Slam finals (after Djokovic and Nadal from 2011 Wimbledon to 2012 French Open). Meanwhile, Alcaraz hopes to continue his recent dominance, claim his fourth major title, and become the youngest player in history to complete a career Grand Slam.

Looking at their head-to-head, Djokovic and Alcaraz have met nine times on the ATP Tour, with Djokovic narrowly leading 5-4. Last year at the Australian Open quarterfinals, Djokovic defeated Alcaraz to advance. This rematch pits a seasoned, resilient legend against a rising star with aggressive play, making this final not only a fight for the title but also a significant moment in tennis history marking a generational shift.

The summer sun in Melbourne is about to witness this ultimate showdown. Will Djokovic extend his Australian Open legacy and claim his 25th Grand Slam? Can Alcaraz complete his career Grand Slam and lift the Australian Open trophy for the first time?

The answers will be revealed Sunday at Rod Laver Arena.

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