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World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz has been dumped out of the Australian Open in a spectacular upset at the hands of Alexander Zverev.
The sixth seed, who is facing assault charges, dominated the first two sets 6-1, 6-3 before conceding the third 7-6 in a tie-breaker after having led it 5-2.
Zverev clinched the fourth and deciding set 6-4 after Alcaraz fumbled late in the piece.
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The German will take on third seed Daniil Medvedev in one semi-final while the other will be played between Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner.
Zverev admitted he let thoughts of winning creep into his mind at 5-2 in the third set, which allowed Alcaraz to stage a mighty comeback.
The Spaniard rose to level the score and force a tie-breaker, which he won 7-2.
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Speaking post-match with Nine commentator and US tennis legend Jim Courier, Zverev said he was happy to seal his victory after the brain fade.
“I’m playing one of the best players in the world, especially over the last two years he’s been number one and number two constantly, he’s won two grand slams and when you’re up 6-1, 6-3, 5-2, you start thinking,” said Zverev.
“We’re all human and it’s a great honour to play against guys like him. When you’re so close to winning, your brain starts going and it’s not always helpful.
“I’m happy that I got it in the end. I think I fought back quite well in the fourth set, didn’t let go. I’m very happy I finished the match.”
Zverev looked to be ailing towards the tail end of the match.
He gave his feet attention midway through the match, evidently to restrap his toes due to blood blisters.
“I feel fine,” he joked with Courier, who kicked up a stink in response.
“I have a lot of blood under my toenails, so that’s quite painful. I tape them up every single match but obviously when you play and when you run a lot they come back.
“I just had to re-tape it.”
The pain, he said, was worth it in the end.
“But you know what? I would much rather feel the way I’m feeling right now with maybe a bit of pain here and there and be in the semi-finals than be at home right now and watching this tournament,” said Zverev, to the excitement of fans inside Rod Laver Arena.
“That’s why I say I’m fine, I’m happy to be here and I’m ready to get going.”
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