novak djokovic beats carlos alcaraz in melbourne blockbuster as aryna sabalenka survives

Novak Djokovic Beats Carlos Alcaraz In Melbourne Blockbuster As Aryna Sabalenka Survives

A vintage Novak Djokovic tamed Carlos Alcaraz in a late-night blockbuster to set up an Australian Open semi-final with Alexander Zverev as two-time women's defending champion Aryna Sabalenka fought on.

The 37-year-old Djokovic rolled back the years at the scene of his greatest achievements on Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 triumph sealed close to 1:00 am.

The Serb surged into the semi-finals and a date with world number two Zverev to edge closer to an 11th Melbourne crown and all-time record 25th Slam title.

'I just wish that this match today was the final,' said Djokovic, paying tribute to 'terrific guy' Alcaraz after they dished up three hours and 37 minutes of high-quality tennis.

'Just one of the most epic matches I have played on this court, any court really.'