Sabalenka Battles Through to Semi-Finals, Faces Emotional Badosa in Melbourne

Top seed Aryna Sabalenka kept her dream of a third consecutive Australian Open title alive, overcoming a tough challenge from Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to win 6-2, 2-6, 6-3. Sabalenka, aiming to replicate Martina Hingis’ feat of three consecutive titles 26 years ago, will now face Spain’s Paula Badosa in the semi-finals.

The Belarusian had to dig deep against Pavlyuchenkova, the oldest remaining player in the women’s draw at 33, who was enjoying a resurgence in her career.

Badosa’s Breakthrough

In the other quarter-final, Paula Badosa stunned world number three Coco Gauff with a 7-5, 6-4 victory. The emotional Spaniard, who has battled her way back from a back injury that left her ranked outside the top 100 just a year ago, reached her first Grand Slam semi-final at the age of 27.

"A year ago, I didn’t know if I would ever play again. Now, I’m here competing against the best in the world," Badosa said, expressing pride in her performance.

Gauff’s Defeat

Gauff, who had been unbeaten in nine matches this season, admitted disappointment but praised Badosa’s aggressive play, which set the tone for the match.

"It’s tough, but I’m not completely crushed," the 20-year-old American said.

Men’s Action Heats Up

Germany’s Alexander Zverev defeated American Tommy Paul in a grueling match, winning 7-6 (7/1), 7-6 (7/0), 2-6, 6-1. Despite a bizarre moment involving a drifting feather that caused a replay on break point, Zverev kept his composure to advance.

Zverev now awaits the winner of the highly anticipated late-night quarter-final between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz.

Djokovic vs. Alcaraz: A Duel for the Ages

Djokovic, 37, is chasing his 100th tournament title and a record 25th Grand Slam. However, Alcaraz, the 21-year-old rising star, has proven a formidable rival, having won their last two Slam encounters, including the 2023 and 2024 Wimbledon finals.

Despite his recent dominance, Alcaraz remains wary of Djokovic’s prowess on Rod Laver Arena, where the Serbian has lifted the trophy 10 times.
"When we watch him play, it’s like he’s young again. It’s unbelievable," Alcaraz said.

Fans are set for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament as tennis legends and rising stars collide on Melbourne’s biggest stage.