Thanks for reading, and for your emails. What a day of tennis. Join us again tomorrow for more of the same. Congratulations to Alexander Zverev and Zheng Qinwen, who both clinched their spots in the Australian Open semi-finals.
Match report
Should also flag that it’s nearly 2am in Melbourne, and would possibly have gone beyond 3am if we had gone to a fifth set.
Worth mentioning that Zverev was limping back to the dressing room. He’s obviously struggling with some knocks, and mentioned his toenails in that post-match interview. I hope it’s not something more serious, it would be a huge shame if he’s not fit to face Medvedev on Friday.
“Great match,” emails Frank Holahan. “And a gift for The Joker. Novak will likely add to his horde of championship hardware. The young Spaniard’s time will come. Let’s enjoy the Serb’s reign a bit longer as we did Federer’s. Nice reporting from Down Under.”
The first two sets from Zverev were almost flawless. He was serving at nearly 90% first serve, and otherwise dominated each rally from the baseline and the net. Alcaraz really showed up in the third set, winning that tie-break from a ridiculous position and I thought we were destined to go to a fifth set. But Alcaraz had a really poor game at 4-4 in the fourth, gifted a break to Zverev, and the German made no mistake with his own serve. A really gutsy display. Was this Zverev’s best ever victory, considering the opponent and circumstances?
Zverev talks to the cameras:
When you’re 6-1, 6-3, 5-2, you start thinking [of winning']. Your brain starts going. But I’m playing one of the best players in the world. But I’m really pleased of the way I fought back in the fourth set. I stayed mentally strong.
On whether he is injured?
I feel fine. I have quite a lot of blood under my toenails. Every time I play they come out. But I would rather be in a bit of pain and in the semi-finals of the Australian Open.
I was one win away from being world No 1. But then I got injured. I’m happy to be back in the top 10.
Zverev will play Medvedev in the semi-finals.
He’s been kicking my ass in recent matches. I’m hoping that this will be place that that changes. We the players say that the US Open has the loudest crowd, but I think the Australian Open crowd is the best. They have real tennis knowledge. They are respectful, they know when to be loud, when to be quiet. I hope I can get some support for the match with Medvedev.
Zverev beats Alcaraz in four sets! The German prevails 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 6-4!
We are into the fourth hour of this match. Zverev is definitely limping but within touching distance of the semi-finals and rips a bomb up the T to take a 30-15 lead. Alcaraz senses weakness in Zverev’s movement though, and after getting another heavy serve back, he claws his way back to 30-30 with a delicious drop shot. The cojones! Next, another astounding point, as the ball hits Alcaraz’s frame, spins wildly over the stadium seats and somehow spins back into court. Zverev is scrambling but then Alcaraz’s bunts an easy backhand long! Match point for Zverev … and the German takes his chance! He’s won, and through to the semis! How did he win that fourth set, with an injury, fatigue and against the momentum and talent of Alcaraz. An outrageous tennis match.
Updated
Zverev* 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 5-4 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Now then. Out of nowhere, Alcaraz gifts Zverev two points on his serve, and suddenly Zverev has two break points … and he converts the first! WOW, WOW, WOW. Who on earth saw this coming?! Certainly not me. But as Alcaraz comes to the net at 15-40, and Zverev belts a textbook backhand up the line, suddenly the 26-year-old has a second opportunity to serve for the match. Ridiculous.
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 4-4 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Zverev zooms to 40-0 up, but Alcaraz fights back to deuce. Two things of concern for Zverev: he appeared to limp after chasing down an Alcaraz drop shot, is that an injury, or just fatigue? Also, the forehand looks weak.
At deuce, one of the most ridiculous points of tennis I’ve ever seen. Zverev has three or four point at the net to finish Alcaraz off, but the Spaniard somehow defends, punting a spinning high shot into the night’s sky to Zverev’s baseline. Credit to the German, he wins the point. But Alcaraz’s talent is absolutely ridiculous. “You just have to laugh”, remarks Kyrgios in the TV commentary.
You know what I was saying about Zverev’s forehand. Forget that. Zverev rips one down the line and then another devastating blow cross-court to seal the game, sealing a sensational hold in the face of some mind-blowing tennis. What a shot from the German. Four-all in the fourth, all square.
Updated
Zverev* 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 3-4 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Alcaraz holds to 15. Zverev looks like he’s holding on for the tie-break.
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 3-3 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Incredible shotmaking from Alcaraz, who is probably the best player on Tour when it comes to turning defence to offence. Zverev, though, serves well and also comes to the net to close out the game and tie things up at 3-3. If Zverev wants to win this match, he needs to come to the net more often. Be more aggressive. If he is passive, Alcaraz will take his chances.
Zverev* 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 3-2 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Zverev is winning this match, but he looks spent when chasing down the Alcaraz groundstrokes. Alcaraz is still losing this match, and we’re still on serve in this fourth set, but I would be shocked if we don’t go to a fifth. Alcaraz’s momentum is unrelenting. Alcaraz holds, he’s 3-2 up.
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 2-2 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Excellent serving from Zverev, who holds easily, but it’s hard to believe that he was serving for the match less than an hour ago. Zverev has only lost one match in his whole career when he was two sets up, and that was the 2020 US Open final.
Zverev* 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 1-2 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Alcaraz is cooking on gas, now. He’s scampering around like a man possessed and there is more umph to all his shots. He sends a 209km/hr ace down and holds his serve with Zverev clipping the net with a tired forehand – this is the shot that has let the German down in the past few games. There is little aggression from Zverev, apart from when he comes to the net. We’re on serve in the fourth set.
Updated
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 1-1 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Alcaraz breaks straight back, despite an excellent volley for Zverev at the net (25/34 in the forecourt, which is an excellent return against someone like Alcaraz). Zverev is waning, he’s not as quick to these Alcaraz drop shots and the court is opening up for the Spaniard.
Zverev* 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 1-0 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Alcaraz slumps to 15-30 down before an incredible point. Zverev somehow gets to a drop shot at the net, flicks it over. Alcaraz has all the time in the world to pick his stop with Zverev stranded, but the German guesses right and somehow volleys the ball back over from point-blank range. Alcaraz has no answer! Two break points for Zverev, and he converts the second, wearing down his opponent from the baseline! An early break, and Zverev’s sixth of the match!
Zverev definitely dropped his level in the third set, and the pace on his groundstrokes in that third set. He went from dominating the points to handing Alcaraz the initiative. It was then up to the Spaniard to either make the shots, or make the errors. He did the former, but encouraging here for Zverev in the fourth.
Mentally and physically, and now with the crowd against him, this has now become an absolutely exhausting encounter for Zverev, who is now receiving some sort of treatment from the trainer during the interval. Remember, Zverev has spent more than five more hours on court than Alcaraz so far in this tournament. More miles on the clock, will be interesting to see if Zverev fades in the fourth, or if he can rally.
Alcaraz wins the third set! He trails two sets to one. It's 6-1, 6-3, 6-7 (2)
Alcaraz forces Zverev into an error and Rod Laver erupts. “He’s a joke” squeals a giggling Nick Kyrgios in the commentary box. “This could go the distance now”.
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Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-6 (2-6) Alcaraz
Alcaraz put Zverev on his arse with a sensational backhand down the line. Zverev looks like he’s got a grazed elbow, but the German dusts himself up and returns to his feet. Alcaraz is on flames though, and the crowd are willing him on, pleading for the match to continue.
Three absolutely unreal points for Alcaraz. The passing shots, the defensive work is absolutely sublime. At full-pelt Alcaraz sprints to his right, and whacks a perfect winner up the line past the advancing Zverev. Four set points for the Spaniard, who was staring down the barrell about 15 minutes ago …
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Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-6 (2-3) Alcaraz
Ridiculous from Alcaraz! First he passes Zverev at the net with a winner he had no right to make, and repeats the trick to move ahead. Zverev should be 4-1 up but he’s 2-3 down!
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-6 (2-0) Alcaraz
Zverev’s big booming groundstrokes are gone, but the German is staying in the rallies, moving around the baseline and grinding it out. It’s Alcaraz that is making the errors, first with a wayward drop shot and then a forehand that drifts long. He moves 2-0 up in the tie-break!
Zverev* 6-1, 6-3, 6-6 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Alcaraz bunts a forehand halfway up the net but that’s where the silliness stops. Alcaraz is back to his best here, with a real pep in his step, as he holds to force a tie-break. How Zverev will want to end this here. Give Alcaraz this set, and he might take the match. That said, Alcaraz has never come back to win from two sets down!
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 6-5 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
While it’s true that the momentum is with Alcaraz, Zverev is still pretty dominant on his serve, particularly the wide ones that leave Alcaraz with an ocean of court to cover for his second shot. Zverev holds with ease and Alcaraz will once again have to serve to stay in this match.
*Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 5-5 Alcaraz
Hi everyone. A huge point, with Alcaraz 15-30 down, as Zverev makes an unforced error. What was potentially two match points becomes 30-30! Alvaraz moves brilliantly to the net to close out the game, and suddenly we are 5-5! It felt like this third set was going to be a procession. All square in the third!
Michael is back to take you through the rest of this match. Is this the final set? Let’s see.
*Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 5-4 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Alcaraz hits first and the crowd are electric. They want to see more of this tennis. It’s the first time Alcaraz is 30-0 in this match and all of a sudden it is Zverev who is under huge pressure after he falls victim to some fantastic forehands.
But wow, some fantastic aces from Zverev puts them on even footing. Kyrgios calls the German’s serves “unreturnable” from the commentary box.
But he can’t keep the momentum up. He is so passive all of a sudden during the rally at 30-30 and his gamble does not pay off as he nets.
What a lift from Alcaraz who then breaks after a crosscourt forehand and an unbelievable volley! Is this the beginning of the comeback?
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 5-3 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Good pressure from Alcaraz now. He’s allowing himself to be more patient now by dragging Zverev out and not forcing winners. It is likely too little too late as we now get to see Zverev serving for the match.
*Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 5-2 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
The German starts the game shaky but he keeps going back to that big first serve, which takes him 40-15 after Alcaraz hits two returns long in a row.
He closes out the game with an incredible change of direction that leaves Alcaraz no chance.
The German is one game away from booking his spot in the semi-final.
Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 4-2 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Alcaraz goes 40-0 with some much better serving. He’s hitting so much closer to the line and is finally showing some versatility to leave Zverev guessing.
He then wins the game with a fantastic lob over Zverev after bringing him closer to the net.
Updated
*Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 4-1 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
More fantastic serving from the German. So far, he has only missed seven first serves in the entire match. He is giving his opponent no chance to gain some rhythm from the back of the court.
The rare time Alcaraz is able to return a serve, the two get a rally going but the Spaniard nets a forehand and his hands are on his knees as the crowd at the Rod Laver Arena try to give him a boost. It has seemed to work as he gets to deuce after a couple of well hit shots force Zverev to rush and hit the ball out.
The momentum is short lived though, and Alcaraz’s unforced errors continue to creep in as Zverev goes 4-1 up.
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Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 3-1 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
The German has found a pattern on how to hurt Alcaraz and he goes up 40-30 in the fourth game of the third set. But Alcaraz takes it to deuce after Zverev nets a backhand. The Spaniard takes the advantage after a really strong serve but after a short rally he hits a relatively easy shot well far and we go back to deuce.
Alcaraz then double faults and then cannot commit to a rally, handing Zverev the game. Wow! The world No 2 is really losing his head here.
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*Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 2-1 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
“Possibly his best serving at a grand slam ever,” Kyrgios says on Zverev. He is absolutely destroying Alcaraz.
The Spaniard is now at 22 unforced errors; a really poor showing.
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*Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 1-1 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
A speedy ace and some nice forehand winners gets Alcaraz on the board. His body language is telling though. He knows this is a mountain to climb.
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Zverev 6-1, 6-3, 1-0 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
A massive serve from the German catches the world No 2 off guard. He holds to 15.
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Thanks Michael. A lot for Alcaraz to do here. He is 0/6 in coming back from two sets down in his professional career, so the odds are stacked against him.
Going to hand over to my colleague Yara El-Shaboury for a bit, while I get a bite to eat. Enjoy the third set!
Updated
Zverev wins the second set! He leads Alcaraz 6-1, 6-3!
Some nice soft hands from Alcaraz at the net but the Spaniard can’t shake Zverev on his serve. At 30-30, Zverev scampers around with some excellent defensive work, moves to the net and forces the error from Alcaraz. Set point for Zverev, and the German converts! Of course he does! Zverev is playing out of his skin, and it feels like there is no way back for Alcaraz. He’s two sets down and we’ve only been playing for an hour and 10 minutes.
Zverev 6-1, 5-3 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Zverev starts with an ace and moves to 40-0, before holding to love. The German is outgunning Alcaraz at the baseline and on the service, reading his dropshots and despatching the Spaniard at the net with some excellent volleys.
Zverev has only given Alcaraz four second serves. An utterly ridiculous stat, over an hour into this contest. He’s a game away now from a 2-0 set lead.
Zverev* 6-1, 4-3 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
For a man that is 6ft6in, Zverev is such a good mover. He’s very much a modern tennis player, away from the old servers like Ivo Karlovic, and can really get around the court. Zverev dives to the net to reach an Alcaraz drop shot to win the first point of the game, and rips a brilliant forehand down the line to go 15-30 up. Another poor drop shot from Alcaraz gives Zverev deuce, and the Spaniard is lucky to avoid break point as a Zverev backhand drifts just wide. After exchanging a few points, some masterful Zverev work at the net does earn a set point and the German converts! Wooooooow! Zverev has the break, and he’s now favourite to take a two-set lead! Alcaraz nearly slams his racket on the court in frustration, but just about keeps his composure.
Zverev 6-1, 3-3 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Both men are grunting now with each shot. Some serious firepower coming down from both sides of the net, but it’s Alcaraz who prevails here, ripping a scorching forehand to the postage stamp. Zverev just looks to his corner for help. Not a lot to be done about that. Alcaraz creates two break points, his first on Zverev’s serve, but the German responds well to get back to deuce, battling his way through a baseline rally before Alcaraz bunts one into the net. Two brutal serves later and Zverev holds, but that was a real fight. Three-all in the second.
Zverev* 6-1, 2-3 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Rally of the match, 17 shots long, as Zverev defends brilliantly before turning the tables on Alcaraz, passing him at the ne … no! Alcaraz reaches out his racket and somehow stretches to volley a winner down the line. Alcaraz lets out his first roar and his customary fistbump to his corner. The rest of the game is an easier affair for Alcaraz, who holds to retake the lead, but it remains on serve in this second set.
Zverev 6-1, 2-2 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Zverev has got so much better with his volleys. In the early part of his career, it was an area he was relatively weak on, considering how much of a weapon the serve-volley is for him. But now he uses that wingspan brilliantly at the net, and plays a lovely volley here, as Alcaraz scrambles around after the ball. Zverev holds to love. He looks untouchable at the moment on his serve.
Updated
Zverev* 6-1, 1-2 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
This feels like the first game where Alcaraz has looked like himself. It’s only taken him 40 minutes to get into the match. A few good serves and a few errors from Zverev means Alcaraz moves 2-1 ahead in the second set. We’re still on serve.
Zverev 6-1, 1-1 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Zverev again moves to 40-0 with ease. He’s making this look simple, as he reads a Alcaraz drop shot and despatches the following ball, before clinching the game with an acute forehand winner cross-court, which has Alcaraz nearly sprinting into the umpire.
Interesting that it is Alcaraz that is currently faltering in the longer rallies, an area where you would expect him to dominate. Zverev has had a gruelling road to this quarter-finals with two five-setters – over 14 hours of play, over five hours more than Alcaraz has faced – but he looks the fresher here!
Zverev* 6-1, 0-1 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Into the second set we go. Alcaraz to serve, and a couple of good first serves to the body gives the Spaniard a couple of much-needed cheap points. In the end, it’s an easy hold. Maybe Alcaraz has turned a corner?
An interesting stat: Zverev has won just two and lost 14 matches against the top 10 at majors, although one of those wins was against Alcaraz, at the 2022 French Open quarter-final.
Zverev actually has a winning record against the Spaniard, winning four and losing three of his seven matches against Alcaraz, who looks completely lost here at the Rod Laver Arena.
Zverev takes the first set over Alcaraz 6-1!
Alcaraz is moving further and further back behind the baseline in an attempt to retrieve these Zverev serves. But it doesn’t seem to work. Zverev zooms to 40-0 up and clinches the first set with an ace! An almost flawless set of tennis against the world No 2!
Updated
Zverev* 5-1 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
At 40-30 up, Alcaraz sends a nice serve out wide, but Zverev’s wingspan means he covers it easily, and sends a wonderful crosscourt backhand past Alcaraz to earn deuce. Every service game is a battle for the youngster, who is once around brought back to deuce by a thunderous Zverev backhand. The German is hitting them from the forehand corner! Zverev moves to break point, and an unforced error from Alcaraz gifts Zverev yet another break of serve! Now, then. Two breaks up, Zverev will serve for the first set.
Zverev 4-1 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Another easy service hold for Zverev. Alcaraz must be worried at how easy the German is making it look.
I would say it is a pleasure to hear Kyrgios on commentary. Real insight that is sorely lacking from most tennis commentators, although I think we can all agree it would be better to have Kyrgios out on court. That, sadly, doesn’t look like it’s going to happen. See below.
The Australian describes Zverev’s toss as being unusual, the German doesn’t hit the ball at the apex of the throw, like so many other great servers. Replays back that up. I hadn’t noticed Very interesting.
Zverev* 3-1 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
The first signs of life for Alcaraz, who dominates his first point of the match. But Zverev roars back, passing Alcaraz at the net, before ripping a searing forehand up the line. Zverev looks in great nick but after a close five-minute game, Alcaraz prevails, and holds his serve. He’s up and running but it’s been a struggle so far for the Spaniard.
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Zverev 3-0 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Perfect serve out wide for Zverev, then a deadly backhand crosscourt to finish the point. Alcaraz hasn’t got anywhere near it so far. Zverev holds, after making 9/10 first serves in his first two service games. That backhand is just so clean. Nick Kyrgios is in the commentary box for Eurosport and he said it’s one of the best shots in tennis.
Zverev* 2-0 Alcaraz (* denotes next server)
Zverev breaks to love. An extremely and uncharacteristic start from Alcaraz, who bunts a few tame efforts into and over the net. Easy pickings for Zverev, who must already fancy himself for this first set. The German is just so hard to break!
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Zverev 1-0 Alcaraz* (* denotes next server)
Zverev holds with the first service game. Standing at 6ft6in, the German's serve is one of his biggest weapons and he typically sends it down at over 210mph. Zverev has made 75% of his first serves this tournament, which gives his opponents very little opportunity for break points and breaks of serve. Zverev finishes the game with a lovely touch at the net. He looks fired up.
Right, we’re back and both Zverev and Alcaraz are out on court! Let’s do this.
That was a goodun. Congrats to Zheng. Right, next up are the men.
Alexander Zverev v Carlos Alcaraz for a place in the men’s singles semi-finals. The winner will play Medvedev, who earlier came through in five sets against Hurkacz.
I’m off for a cuppa. See you in two ticks.
Rounding out the quarters 👋 pic.twitter.com/zsuOG2xphj
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2024
Zheng will rise to No 6 in the rankings if she takes the Australian Open title. She is fully capable of that.
Zheng met Li Na a few days ago in Melbourne, following her third-round win. Li Na is Zheng’s idol, and definitely an inspiration to the 21-year-old. Zheng has admitted to watching Li Na’s 2014 victory more than 10 times.
ICONIC 🫶
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2024
Qinwen Zheng x Li Na pic.twitter.com/OKUwHzEcAg
10 years ago, Zheng Qinwen watched Li Na winning Australian Open in front of TV with her tennis teammates.
— Bendou Zhang🎾 (@BendouZhang) January 24, 2024
10 years later, she is two wins away from it...#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/KBFm8jUyHR
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Ten years after Li Na won here in Australia, another Chinese star is rising. Zheng reaches her first grand slam semi-final, where she will face qualifier Dayana Yastremska.
Zheng speaks to the crowd:
She was hitting really good baseline shots. It was really tough for me. I was just thinking ‘stay focused’. I’m so happy to be in the semi-finals. I want to say thanks for all the fans that are supporting me.
She is told she will now be in the top 10 after reaching the last four.
Thank you for telling me. Nobody tells me anything!
Zheng wins! Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 3-6, 1-6 Zheng
Zheng is automatic now, swatting a forehand winner away with ease. Her level has risen, and Kalinskaya’s has dropped, as she bumps an unforced error into the net for 15-30. Zheng punishes a weak second serve to earn match point … and another error from Kalinskaya gives Zheng the victory!
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Kalinskaya* 7-6 (4), 3-6, 1-5 Zheng (* denotes next server)
Two consecutive aces for Zheng takes her to 40-15 but Kalinskaya gets back to deuce. But Zheng is fired up, screaming as she holds serve. It seems the Russian has overcome her hip injury, but I’m not sure about the scoreline. When Zheng is good, she’s very, very good. A serious contender for the title here, if she plays as he has in this third set. Zheng is one game away from victory.
Kalinskaya has called the trainer on. It seems she is struggling with some sort of hip injury, or possibly something in her back? Kalinskaya lies down on the court by her bench, as the physio stretches out the Russian’s right leg. It does seems to be a hip issue. For the first time, Kalinskaya’s expression changes from a serene one. She’s in obvious pain.
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Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 3-6, 1-4 Zheng* (* denotes next server)
Zheng has more energy, and at 30-30 wins a point she has no right to after some great defensive work. Break point for Zheng. This might as well be match point … and the Chinese breaks serve again, with Kalinskaya skying a forehand beyond the baseline. That’s four games in a row for Zheng – surely Kalinskaya can’t recover from 4-1 down here?
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Kalinskaya* 7-6 (4), 3-6, 1-3 Zheng (* denotes next server)
Zheng holds with ease to move 3-1 up in the deciding set. Just saw a stat that Zheng wins 82% of sets after an early break. Not sure exactly what ‘an early break’ is defined by, but that doesn’t sounds promising for Kalinskaya.
Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 3-6, 1-2 Zheng* (* denotes next server)
Oh no! Are the wheels finally coming off for Kalinskaya? Zheng breaks serve to love, hurtling one of those textbook backhand winners down the line past the now helpless Russian. Suddenly, this match looks like Zheng’s to lose, she will now serve to consolidate her break of serve.
Kalinskaya* 7-6 (4), 3-6, 1-1 Zheng (* denotes next server)
Zheng holds to love. She’s not messing about here. Feels like she’s finally hit her stride as we approach the third hour of this match.
This tennis meme made me chuckle, by the way.
me in a group project pic.twitter.com/TZOs6U07nI
— Martin (@PojdBase) January 23, 2024
Sort of how I feel when this happens.
Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 3-6, 1-0 Zheng* (* denotes next server)
Just as she did in the first set, Kalinskaya starts the first service game of the third set with a double fault. But the Russian recovers to 40-30. This is such a crucial part of this match. Zheng has the momentum, and is hoping to put the pressure on her less favoured opponent. The 12th seed rips a backhand winner for deuce, but again Kalinskaya responds to hold serve. Mentally, this is so impressive from the Russian.
Zheng takes the second set to square things up! Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 3-6 Zheng
Despite a double fault and couple of nervy shots, Zheng holds serve and wins the second set, sealing it with an ace down the T. Zheng doesn’t even look up at her camp, or flick a smile. She’s focused. Ominous signs for Kalinskaya prior to the third set.
Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 3-5 Zheng* (* denotes next server)
Zheng earns break point – the first of this second set – and converts! Zheng didn’t try and hit the hero winner, just stayed in the rally and ramped up the pace and eventually Kalinskaya crumbled. That is something the Chinese does so well. She can really smash a groundstroke when she needs to. Sometimes you don’t need to hit the chalk. Zheng leads 5-3 and she will serve for the second set.
Kalinskaya* 7-6 (4), 3-4 Zheng (* denotes next server)
Zheng holds serve. She’s so consistent on her serve and really erratic on Kalinskaya’s serve.
Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 3-3 Zheng* (* denotes next server)
Something a little lacking is a proper atmosphere. I’m loathe to call the Australian atmosphere flat, but it’s not exactly the vibes of Kim Jong Un at a volleyball game.
Kim Jong Un watching a volleyball game pic.twitter.com/BN1KNMbko0
— Historic Vids (@historyinmemes) January 24, 2024
Anyway, a love service game from Kalinskaya! That’s 12 successive holds of serve, after four breaks of serve in the opening six games of this match. We’re back to 3-3 in the second set.
Kalinskaya* 7-6 (4), 2-3 Zheng (* denotes next server)
After racing to 40-0 up, Zheng allows Kalinskaya back into it for deuce. That’s 26 unforced errors to Kalinskaya’s 16 in this match. But two good serves see Zheng eventually take the game, the latter a good second serve to the body that ties Kalinskaya in knots.
Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 2-2 Zheng* (* denotes next server)
As well as Kalinskaya has played, this is a story about Zheng. She has more talent, and the capabilities to win here, but is playing well within herself. When Zheng strings a few shots together, Kalinskaya can’t live with her. But there are too many errors from Zheng. After forcing deuce on her opponents serve with another winner up the line, Zheng duds another shot into the net to gift Kalinskaya the game. We’re back to 2-2 in the second set.
Insects on the court! A few bugs on the blue, as it were, and a young ballboy expertly grabs some sort of winged creature with his hands and tosses it to the side. I guess when you grown up in Australia, you’re not squeamish about these things.
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Kalinskaya* 7-6 (4), 1-2 Zheng (* denotes next server)
Kalinskaya’s demeanour is so calm, you’d never guess this was her first grand slam quarter-final – remember she has never previously been past the second round of a slam. The Russian claws herself back to 30-30, but Zheng serves well to close out the game. It remains on serve.
Kalinskaya 7-6 (4), 1-1 Zheng* (* denotes next server)
Zheng forces deuce, and has Kalinskaya scrambling about behind her baseline with relentless hitting, but the Russian reads Zheng’s volley and passes the Chinese at the net with a backhand winner up the line. Kalinskaya takes the game, and we’re all square in the second set.
Kalinskaya* 7-6 (4), 0-1 Zheng (* denotes next server)
Zheng responds, and wins the first service game of the second set.
A lot of pressure on Zheng’s shoulders now. She was rated by Forbes as the 15th highest earning athlete in the world across all sports, and those off-court sponsors, who see her as a way to access the huge Chinese market, are banking on her to reach the latter stages of the grand slams, particularly against the unseeded players.
Kalinskaya takes first set against Zheng 7-6 (4)!
What a shock result this would be! Kalinskaya is half-way to the semi-finals of the Australian Open!
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Both players are tense, as Kalinskaya takes a 5-4 lead. One of the longest rallies of the match follows, with both players sprinting around their baselines at full tilt, but it’s Zheng that cracks first, palming a weak forehand just into the tramline! At 6-4, Kalinskaya will have two set points!
No, they’re not, it turns out! Kalinskaya hits an in-out forehand winner to get the mini-break back. It’s 3-3 in the first-set tie-break. Who will crack?
Zheng taking her time, the shot clock nearly expiring as she zooms her fourth ace of the set down the middle to take a 2-1 lead in the tie-break. Kalinskaya is tightening up a bit, and sends an easy forehand long for Zheng’s minibreak. It’s 3-1 to the Chinese. Are Kalinskaya’s nerves jangling?
Zheng is oscillating from the sublime to the ridiculous. She sends a backhand winner up the line at 135km/hr, before double faulting, her first of the match. The next serve, she aces down the T, at 179km/hr! Zheng holds, and we’ll go to a first-set tiebreak!
Shot of the match! Kalinskaya sends a few looping shots from the baseline and after a bit of rallying, Zheng pummels a backhand right into the corner. But Kalinskaya recovers her service game well, and holds to take a 6-5 lead. Zheng can’t get any consistency going, she will again serve to stay in this set.
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At 30-30, Zheng tries another drop shot, but she judges this one to perfection! That took cojones, after her awful effort in the last game, and Kalinskaya shakes her head in bemusement. What a crucial point that was. Instead of facing set point, Zheng has game point, which she wins with aplomb, ripping a forehand up the line. It’s 5-5.
Zheng skews a drop shot and Kalinskaya capitalises, sealing the game with a strong backhand, forcing an error from her opponent. Kalinskaya leads 5-4, and is one game away from the first set! What an upset this would be! Zheng will serve to stay in the set.
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An empathic response from Zheng, who holds to love. Nobody women had more aces (34) this tournament coming into this match. Zheng’s serve is so, so important to her game. It’s 4-4. This set could go either way.
At 30-40 down, Kalinskaya comes to the net and sends an excellent volley beyond Zheng’s racket. The Russian is moving really well, and her backhand is causing Zheng all sorts of problems. Kalinskaya secures just the third hold of serve in this first set, and she leads 4-3.
A woeful game for Zheng, who is having a bit of a wobble. Zheng’s serve is a real weapon normally, but Kalinskaya is dominating with her returns, particularly on the second serve. We’re back on serve at 3-3.
Zheng breaks! When the 12th seed gets it going, Kalinskaya can’t live with her. Zheng is hitting the lines, and Kalinskaya can only return the ball to the middle of the court. An easy overhead sees Zheng take a 3-2 lead. She will now serve to consolidate her break.
Zheng holds, starting the game with a rip-roaring cross-court backhand winner, and finishing it with an ace out wide. Things are hotting up a bit, both players have settled. It’s 2-2, with Kalinskaya to serve next.
Zheng looks visibly annoyed at herself as Kalinskaya holds her serve. There was an opportunity after the nervy first game to dominate this first set, but the Chinese has allowed her opponent to get a foothold here, Kalinskaya’s confidence is soaring, but it remains on serve.
Zheng is the aggressor on her serve, but Kalinskaya has settled. After going 0-30 down, the Russian roars back with some gutsy baseline retrievals and forces Zheng into a series of errors! Kalinskaya breaks straight back and we’re back on serve in the first set: 1-1.
Zheng is straight into her groove, ripping a backhand return up the line to force deuce on Kalinskaya’s serve. The Russian seems a little nervy, and two double faults hands Zheng the opening game and an early break! It’s understandable that Kalinskaya is nervous, but she needs to settle down quickly. In a three-set contest, the first set is just so important.
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Here we go, then!
Anyway, Kalinskaya and Zheng are both out on court for their quarter-final. It’s the final last-eight match to take place. The winner will face Dayana Yastremska, the qualifier in the semis.
Not sure there is another male player that is more synonymous with a hat than Hewitt. Roddick, maybe? Lendl, with his flappy hat at the back?
Lleyton Hewitt has been honoured with a rather nice statue after belatedly entering the Australian Tennis Hall of Fame. Hewitt, now 42, stands on court and looks a little awkward in a suit. It’s really weird to see him not wearing a cap.
Backwards cap: Iconic 🇦🇺
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2024
Congratulations on being inducted into the Australian Tennis Hall of Fame, @lleytonhewitt! pic.twitter.com/BRaePFK14J
Kalinskaya is the underdog here against Zheng. Previously the Russian had never won three Grand Slam matches in a row but beat former US Open champions Sloane Stephens to reach the fourth round, where she beat Italian 26 seed Jasmine Paolini with ease. The daughter of professional badminton players, Kalinskaya has been around for a bit, but this tournament could see her rocket up from her current position as 75th in the world rankings.
Brit watch: slim pickings these days, but should also mention that there is a mixed doubles semi-final final going on, with Britain’s Neal Skupski teamed up with American Desirae Krawczyk. Those two have dropped just one set all tournament and are favourites to beat the Australian unseeded pair Marc Polmans and Olivia Gadecki. It’s currently on serve in the first set.
Good evening to everyone reading in Australia, good morning to those waking up in the UK, and hello to everybody in between. We’ve got a pair of excellent singles quarter-finals coming up.
First up on Rod Laver, we’ve got Anna Kalinskaya v Qinwen Zheng (12). Play will start on that in around half an hour.
Once that is done, Alexander Zverev (6) v Carlos Alcaraz (2).
Woof.
As an understandably tired Daniil Medvedev makes his way from Rod Laver Arena, I’ll hand you over to Michael Butler to take you through the evening session. Thanks for following.
Daniil Medvedev has had to do it the hard way to reach the Australian Open semi-finals for the third time, with his second five-set triumph at this tournament coming on top of a pair of four-setters.
“I am so destroyed right now,” Medvedev said after his win over Hubert Hurkacz.
“I was feeling very tough physically at the end of the second set already and I was like ‘OK, I need to stay tough’.
“He (Hurkacz) played good, I don’t even feel tough on myself.
“I’m happy that I managed to win and I really like the match point.”
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ANOTHER marvellous moment in this quarterfinal match.
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2024
Hubi and Daniil have put on a show 🍿#AusOpen • @wwos • @espn • @eurosport • @wowowtennis#Kia • #MakeYourMove • @Kia_Worldwide pic.twitter.com/07v5L5fhSG
Medvedev beats Hurkacz 7-6(4), 2-6, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4
A pair of forehand winners and an Ace give Medvedev two match points at 40-15, but Hurkacz shows the fight he has displayed for more than four hours to force an error.
Medvedev finishes an epic match in style with a forehand winner that books his spot in the semi-finals.
This match really could have gone either way, with Hurkacz having more Aces (16-11) and winners (61-43) but failing to make the most of 15 break points and only converting five times.
Medvedev is now one win away from an Australian Open final, as the No 3 seed looks to return to the decider after also reaching the same stage in 2021 and 2022.
And breathe 💆
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2024
In a quarterfinal EPIC @DaniilMedwed has triumphed.
He beats Hurkacz in five thrilling sets 7-6(4) 2-6 6-3 5-7 6-4. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/yY855WtGJd
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Bold attack helps Hurkacz hold to love.
With no margin for error Hurkacz goes on the attack with a breathtaking backhander that takes him to 30-0.
A pair of Medvedev errors finish off the game but the No 3 seed will now serve for a spot in the semi-final.
Medvedev holds to take 5-3 lead and close in on semi-final spot.
After falling behind 30-15 off Medvedev’s serve, Hurkacz refuses to go quietly and fights back to earn a break-back point.
But Hurkacz misses the opportunity as the game moves to deuce and Medvedev eventually closes it out on the second attempt.
Hurkacz will now serve to stay in the match.
Medvedev breaks Hurkacz to open up 4-3 lead.
There had to be another twist in this topsy-turvy encounter and here it is.
Hurkacz had been looking particularly confident on his serve but a run of errors hands Medvedev two break points.
Medvedev makes the most of the first of those after charging to the net and pulls away in the fifth set.
Medvedev holds serve to level the set at 3-3.
The No 3 seed cruises through his service game to 15 in little more than a minute for one of his quickest of the match.
We are yet to see a break point in the fifth set even as the tension rises.
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Hurkacz pushes out to 3-2 lead in the fifth set.
Both players are controlling the game on their own serve, as Hurkacz wins this one to 15 with three forehand winners.
Hurkacz holds serve and delivers fastest Ace of the match.
The Pole is showing few signs of fatigue as he sends down a blazing Ace at 30-30 that hits a match-high 225 km/h. Hurkacz then forces an error to take a 2-1 lead in the set.
But Medvedev then impresses in his own service game, winning it to 15 to make the fifth set 2-2.
Hurkacz and Medvedev each hold serve to start fifth set.
The players are soon back on court and facing up to a fifth set as the shade slowly makes its way across Rod Laver Arena.
Hurkacz picks up where he left off in the previous set, winning his service game to 15.
Medvedev has to work harder to keep the fifth set on serve as the game moves to 30-30, but a couple of errors from Hurkacz keep it on level terms.
While Medvedev and Hurkacz take a well-earned break, dive into Jack Snape’s story on Rohan Bopanna – the oldest player to reach men’s doubles No 1.
Bopanna climbed to the rankings summit at the age of 43 with a victory alongside Matt Ebden in the Australian Open quarter-finals:
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Hurkacz breaks Medvedev to win fourth set 7-5
We’re heading into a fifth set at Rod Laver Arena and Hurkacz has all the momentum.
Hurkacz took an early 0-30 lead off Medvedev’s serve, then had a set point within reach at 15-30 until sending a simple backhand long from the baseline.
The No 9 seed was able to get to the net to smash a forehand volley to make it 30-40, while an unforced forehand error from Medvedev took the set to 7-5.
After Medvedev picked up the early break, Hurkacz found his rhythm as the set went on – and finished with seven Aces in it to one – to ensure this quarter-final go into a fifth set.
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Hurkacz holds to make it 6-5 in fourth set.
Another rapid service game for Hurkacz who wins this one to 15 after clinching it with a 210 km/h Ace.
Hurkacz is looking fresh while Medvedev appears to be hanging on. The No 3 seed needs to lift and win his service game to take this to another tie-breaker.
Medvedev holds to make it 5-5 as match passes three-hour mark.
The No 3 seed was in control of the game when easing to 40-15, but Hurkacz has started looking more assured with his backhand and was able to take it to deuce.
Medvedev eventually closed out the game on the third attempt but signs of fatigue are showing through as the fourth set drags on.
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Hurkacz holds serve and leads for the first time in the set.
A pair of forehand winners take Hurkacz to a 30-0 lead and he soon closes it out to 15.
In a dramatic turnaround to the set, Medvedev will now serve to stay in it while trailing 4-5.
Hurkacz breaks back to level the fourth set at 4-4.
Medvedev has his opponent on the ropes at 30-15 but Hurkacz fights back to win the next three points.
The first two come with Hurkacz at the net, then the third has Medvedev running across the court until a forehand crashes into the net.
Hurkacz pushed to deuce but holds serve.
A tougher service game for Hurkacz as Medvedev is this time able to return serve.
Both players appear to be tiring as more of the game plays out with baseline rallies, but after it is taken to deuce Hurkacz clinches it thanks to a pair of Medvedev errors
A fist pump suggests their is still plenty of fight to come from the Pole.
Medvedev holds to move to a 4-2 lead.
Hurkacz undoes some of his hard work in the previous games with three backhand errors.
A double fault from Medvedev makes it 40-15 but he cleans up his next serve and Hurkacz again hits into the net.
Four serves, four Aces.
Hurkacz makes it six Aces in succession across two games – peaking at 216km/h with his first in this game – to now trail 2-3 in the fourth set.
Can Hurkacz break back to make the most of the groove he’s discovered with his serve?
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Medvedev holds serve to lead fourth set 3-1.
Another hard-earned service game for Medvedev but after 10 points of holding Hurkacz at arm’s length he eventually comes out on top.
The match is really heating up now with both players nailing their winners but Hurkacz is quickly running out of time to stay in the contest when a break down.
Hurkacz holds serve with pair of blistering Aces.
The Pole needed to steady with a strong service game and wins this one to 15.
From 30-15 he sends down a couple of Aces at 207 and 211 km/h to complete the game. Hurkacz will likely need more of that if he is to turn this around.
Medvedev carries momentum into fourth set for 2-0 lead.
The No 3 seed wins four points in a row, finishing with three consecutive forehand winners, to break Hurkacz to 30.
Medvedev then wins his own service game to love, sending down an Ace to make it 2-0.
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Medvedev wins third set 6-3 against Hurkacz
After an unforced error on each side Medvedev pushed to 30-15 with an Ace.
Medvedev was then at the net for one of the more entertaining rallies of the match as he couldn’t quite put Hurkacz away with a pair of volleys. A neat lob from Hurkacz sent Medvedev scampering backwards and he could only send the backhand wide to make it 30-30.
The No 3 seed then closed out the set in style, with a forehand winner that took him to set point then an Ace than clinched the two-sets-to-one lead.
Medvedev made more of his first serve in that set for an 84% success rate, including three Aces, and now leads 7-6(4), 2-6, 6-3.
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Hurkacz overcomes nervy first serves to hold.
Hurkacz was serving to stay in the third set but started with three faults, as Medvedev took advantage of the sudden sloppiness to have three set points.
A bold forehand winner from Hurkacz built some momentum and he was eventually able to close out the game to make it 3-5.
Medvedev will now serve for the set.
Medvedev holds to love and leads third set 5-2.
It is Medvedev’s turn to race through a service game, taking a couple of minutes to claim it to love.
Hurkacz will serve next to keep the third set alive.
Medvedev and Hurkacz each hold for 4-2 in the third set.
Medvedev has Hurkacz racing back and forth when his service game is at 30-15, the Pole taking a tumble while reaching for a forehand.
Hurkacz is quickly back on his feet but makes a forehand error as Medvedev takes a 4-1 lead in the set.
The Pole responds with yet another service game to love, this time wrapping it up in under 50 seconds.
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Hurkacz holds but still trails 1-3.
A confident game from Hurkacz despite the scoreline as he wins it to 15 with a sharp backhand winner closing it out.
Medvedev holds after three break points missed by Hurkacz.
Medvedev starts with a pair of double faults then sprays a forehand error to give Hurkacz three break points.
A forehand winner keeps Medvedev in the game, then a series of unforced errors from Hurkacz makes it 3-0 in the set.
It could have been very different for Hurkacz but he has had five break points already in this set without clinching any of them.
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Medvedev breaks to take a 2-0 lead.
Hurkacz has made light work of his recent service games but Medvedev wins four consecutive points to clinch the break.
A double fault at 30-40 proves particular costly as Medvedev moves to 2-0.
Medvedev looks shaky but holds serve to start the third set.
The No 3 seed is pushed into another lengthy service game and hands over a break point with a double fault.
Medvedev responds with an Ace but then gives Hurkacz another break point off a backhand error.
He finally builds some momentum to take the next three points and win the game but will want to make more of his own serve from here.
While Hurkacz and Medvedev take a breather between sets, a reminder that qualifier Dayana Yastremska is through to the women’s semi-finals after a 6-3, 6-4 win over Linda Noskovav.
The first qualifier to reach the AO women’s semifinals since 1978 💫
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2024
@D_Yastremska 👏 #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/wE3zr9ZHRJ
Hurkacz wins second set against Medvedev 6-2
It’s level at one set apiece on Rod Laver Arena as Hubert Hurkacz seals the second set with another service game to love.
The Pole is flying at the moment, with three forehand winners helping him race through that game.
Hurkacz hit 14 winners in that set to Medvedev’s three, as the tide well and truly turned.
Hurkacz seals double break and will serve for the set.
A double fault has Medvedev on the ropes early in his service game as Hurkacz soon sets up two break points.
The Pole misses the first of those with a forehand error but gets to the net on the next point to make it 5-2. Hurkacz has now won seven points at the net in the second set compared to Medvedev’s one.
Hurkacz holds serve in 52 seconds.
The Pole again races through a service game to love, this time starting with a pair of Aces.
Medvedev needs to find a way to put more pressure on Hurkacz’s serve before the set runs away from him.
Hurkacz and Medvedev quickly hold serve.
After a rollercoaster ride through the third game of the set, Hurkacz and Medvedev each hold serve to 15.
Hurkacz now leads the set 3-2 off the early break.
Medvedev holds in a monster game.
The longest game of the match so far – at 10 minutes and with 14 points – eventually goes to Medvedev.
Hurkacz fell behind 0-40 with three consecutive errors but fought back to deuce and then set up two break points.
But Medvedev was able to hold and make it 1-2 in the set, when a winner off his serve was followed by a forehand winner.
Hurkacz holds serve to lead 2-0 in second set.
For the first time in four service games, Hurkacz gives up a point and is eventually pushed to deuce as both players pay the price for their errors.
Hurkacz then puts away a pair of forehand winners to seal his early lead in the set, as he starts to benefit from a willingness to approach the net.
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Hurkacz starts second set with a break.
The No 9 seed brushes aside the disappointment of dropping the first set in a tie-breaker to break Medvedev straight away.
A pair of winners set up the break point then Medvedev sprays a forehand to give Hurkacz an early advantage.
Medvedev wins first set against Hurkacz 7-6 (7-4)
Medvedev goes down the baseline for the first winner of the tie-breaker, but Hurkacz fights back twice including with his own forehand winner to make it 4-5.
The No 3 seed then pushes to set point with another powerful forehand and completes the deal on the next point with an unforced error from Hurkacz.
The Pole hit as high as 222km/h on his serve and won 22/24 of first serves, but needs more from his second serve (4/12 points won) to quickly find a way back into the match.
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Medvedev opens up 4-2 lead in tie-breaker.
Hurkacz and Medvedev start the tie-breaker by trading blows from the baseline. Medvedev eventually hands over the opening point with a forehand error, while Hurkacz does much the same on the next point to make it 1-1.
More errors on each side of the court make it 2-2 but Medvedev pulls away with the next two points as Hurkacz overhits on his forehand.
The first set is going to a tie-breaker.
Medvedev continues the streak of service games to love as he quickly puts Hurkacz away to make it 6-6.
Hurkacz will serve first.
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Hurkacz and Medvedev each hold serve to love.
Medvedev holds his serve without conceding a point for this first time in the set, while Hurkacz responds to make it three service games in a row to love.
Hurkacz has a 6-5 lead as Medvedev looks to force a first set tie-breaker.
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Hurkacz and Medvedev each hold serve for 5-4 in first set.
Medvedev is pushed early in his service game but an Ace at 40-30 is followed by a backhand winner to wrap it up without further trouble.
Hurkacz then wins his service game to love for the second time in a row – this time sealing it with back-to-back Aces – as Medvedev prepares to serve to stay in the set.
Hurkacz holds to love and leads for the first time.
The No 9 seed is looking ominous as Medvedev again struggles to deal with Hurkacz’s first serve.
Three forehand errors from Medvedev puts Hurkacz in command, then a backhand winner ensures he takes the lead at 4-3.
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Hurkacz breaks back to level the set at 3-3.
The Pole has worked his way back into this contest and now gets his reward as a backhand winner at 30-40 evens up the set.
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Hurkacz holds but still trails by a break at 2-3.
An easier game for Hurkacz as Medvedev looks troubled by his opponent’s serve for the first time.
Medvedev is forced into three errors in a row then Hurkacz winds up with another Ace to win the game to 30.
Hurkacz is winning 80% of his first serves, but only 22% of second serves.
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Medvedev maintains early break at 3-1.
The No 3 seed is firing up now, starting and ending the game with aces as he wins the game to 30.
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Hurkacz holds after Medvedev error on break point.
The Pole gets on the board for the first time after Medvedev wastes a break point at 30-40 with a wayward backhand.
Hurkacz backs up with a confident forehand winner at deuce, then delivers his first Ace of the match.
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Medvedev holds serve for an early 2-0 lead.
A tighter game is taken to deuce and a double fault sets up break point for Hurkacz.
But the Pole is still trying to find his range on the backhand and sends a simple shot long as the opportunity for an immediate response fades.
An Ace from Medvedev puts him one point away from a 2-0 lead, then a hurried forehand from Hurkacz seals it.
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Daniil Medvedev breaks Hubert Hurkaczv in the opening game.
The No 3 seed makes a scintillating start, breaking his Poland opponent to 15.
Hurkaczv is taking some time to warm up with four errors handing Medvedev an early advantage.
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Preamble
The quarter-finals continue at the Australian Open on day 11 and Ukrainian qualifier Dayana Yastremska has already booked her spot in the women’s singles semi-finals with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Linda Noskova.
Next up on Rod Laver Arena are Hubert Hurkacz (9) and Daniil Medvedev (3).
We’ll be following the No 9 and No 3 seeds as they battle for their own place in the men’s singles semi-finals – get in touch with your thoughts and predictions.
And later Michael Butler will be on deck to take you through the evening session featuring Anna Kalinskaya v Qinwen Zheng (12), followed by Alexander Zverev (6) v Carlos Alcaraz (2).
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