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Australian Open: Djokovic beats Lehecka, sets QF clash with Alcaraz | Read

Sandy Verma January 19, 2025 10:24 PM

Novak Djokovic delivered a masterclass performance at the Australian Open, defeating Jiri Lehecka in straight sets (6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4)) to reach his 15th men’s singles quarter-final at the tournament.

Djokovic’s victory sets up a highly anticipated clash with Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals. Djokovic’s solid baseline play and minimal unforced errors were key to his win, while Lehecka struggled with consistency.

Djokovic’s elite movement and ability to handle pressure moments were on full display, showcasing his enduring prowess even at the age of 37.

This victory marks Djokovic’s 15th quarter-final appearance at Melbourne Park, tying him with Roger Federer and putting him one ahead of Rafael Nadal and John Newcombe.

Djokovic will face Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals, who secured his spot after Jack Draper retired from their match due to injury. Djokovic and Alcaraz have faced each other seven times, with Djokovic leading 4-3.

Djokovic skips post-match interview, courtesy of Tony Jones’ hateful & hurtful comments

Djokovic did not do a post-match interview after his win at the Australian Open. He gave a quick statement, signed some autographs, and was booed by some of the crowd as he left.

Later, Djokovic confirmed in the press conference that he has boycotted the post-match interview due to the bad comments made live on air on Channel 9 towards his fans.

Novak Djokovic is aiming to become the oldest player in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam title, surpassing Ken Rosewall, who won the 1972 Australian Open at 37 years and 62 days old. By the end of this Melbourne tournament, Djokovic will be 37 years and 249 days old.

Carlos Alcaraz, on the other hand, is striving to become the youngest player to achieve a career Grand Slam in men’s singles history. At 21 years old, Alcaraz could become the youngest champion at the hard-court major since Djokovic, who won it at 20 in 2008.

Earlier in the day, Alexander Zverev defeated Ugo Humbert 6-1, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 to advance to the quarterfinals. The World No. 2, who is seeking his first Grand Slam title, will face former Australian Open semifinalist Tommy Paul next. Paul dominated his match against Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, winning 6-1, 6-1, 6-1.