Australian Open: Alcaraz Advances to Quarterfinals After Draper Withdraws
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Synopsis
Carlos Alcaraz's pursuit of a Career Grand Slam at the Australian Open remains alive as Jack Draper retires during their fourth-round matchup. Alcaraz leads 7-5, 6-1 at the time of Draper's withdrawal and moves on to his tenth Grand Slam quarterfinal, where he will face either Djokovic or Lehecka.
Key Takeaways
- Carlos Alcaraz advances in Australian Open.
- Jack Draper forced to retire in fourth round.
- Alcaraz ties record for most quarterfinals by a player under 21.
- Alcaraz aims for youngest Career Grand Slam in history.
- Next opponent: Novak Djokovic or Jiri Lehecka.
Melbourne, Jan 19 (NationPress) Carlos Alcaraz continues his quest for a Career Grand Slam at the Australian Open after Jack Draper had to retire during their fourth-round match on Sunday. Alcaraz was ahead 7-5, 6-1 when Draper withdrew. With this victory, Alcaraz advances to his 10th Grand Slam quarterfinal, where he will face the legendary Novak Djokovic or Jiri Lehecka.
By making it to the last eight of a Grand Slam for the 10th time, Alcaraz ties the Open Era record for the most quarterfinals reached by a male player aged 21 or younger.
Before leaving the court, Alcaraz expressed his support for Draper, writing on the camera, 'You will be where you deserve. Get well soon, Jack!'
Draper’s retirement followed a remarkable comeback by Alcaraz, who had initially led with a 5-2 advantage. After a brief struggle that allowed Draper to tie the set at 5-5, Alcaraz showcased his exceptional skills, winning eight of the next nine games as Draper, who had taken a medical timeout, began to feel the effects of his earlier matches.
Alcaraz wrapped up the second set with an impressive display of serving. His powerful serves kept Draper from mounting any serious challenge. A stunning forehand winner highlighted his dominance during the set.
Ultimately, despite Draper's resilience, Alcaraz's serving was too formidable, allowing him to comfortably win the second set 6-1 before Draper chose to retire.
Alcaraz remarked in his post-match interview, 'It’s not the way I want to win the match to get through to the next round. I’m just happy to play in another quarterfinal in Australia, but a little bit sad for Jack, he’s a nice person. He doesn’t deserve to get injured.'
Alcaraz is aiming to be the youngest player to achieve a career Grand Slam in men’s singles history. In a tournament that has seen a surge of young talent, the 21-year-old could become the youngest champion at the hard-court major since Novak Djokovic, who was 20 in 2008.
