Ten-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic continued his march toward a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, defeating Czech Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) to secure his place in the quarter-finals, MySportDab Reports.
The 37-year-old Serbian star equaled Roger Federer’s record with his 15th Australian Open quarter-final appearance, surpassing both Rafael Nadal and John Newcombe.
Djokovic also extended his all-time record for most Grand Slam quarter-final appearances to 61, three ahead of Federer. On Rod Laver Arena, he outclassed 24th seed Lehecka, who had recently won the Brisbane International, but was no match for Djokovic on the big stage.
A break in the eighth game of the opening set, capitalizing on a Lehecka double fault, set Djokovic on course. He continued his dominance in the second set, breaking early and dictating rallies from the baseline.
Lehecka fought back in the third set, adjusting his strategy to push Djokovic to the net and serving with greater intensity. However, Djokovic’s experience and precision shone in the tiebreak, sealing the victory with stunning shot-making.
Next up for Djokovic is a highly anticipated clash with 21-year-old third seed Carlos Alcaraz, a four-time Grand Slam champion. Alcaraz advanced after Jack Draper retired in their fourth-round match.
Discussing the matchup, Alcaraz said: “When we see him playing, it’s like he’s young again. It’s unbelievable. But I’m ready and know what I have to do in the quarter-finals.”
Djokovic holds a 4-3 head-to-head record over Alcaraz, including a win in their most recent meeting at the Paris Olympics final.
While Alcaraz has beaten Djokovic twice in Grand Slam finals, this will be their first encounter at Melbourne Park, where Djokovic has achieved unparalleled success. Their quarter-final promises to be a captivating battle of generations.
