On Wednesday, Daniil Medvedev, a two-time Australian Open runner-up, overcame a tough challenge from Hubert Hurkacz to secure a spot in the potential semi-final against Carlos Alcaraz. Ukrainian qualifier Dayana Yastremska also continued her dream run, while China's Zheng Qinwen secured a semi-final spot as well.
Medvedev, the former US Open champion, battled through a grueling five-set match against Polish ninth seed Hurkacz. Despite winning the first set, Medvedev faced setbacks as Hurkacz fought back to level the match twice. However, the Russian player produced a crucial break in the decider, ultimately winning the match 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4. Medvedev will now face either second seed Carlos Alcaraz or sixth seed Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals.
Following Medvedev's match, Ukrainian qualifier Dayana Yastremska took center stage and cruised past unseeded Czech player Linda Noskova. Yastremska's victory makes her just the second women's qualifier in the Open Era to reach this far in the Australian Open. She secured a 6-3, 6-4 win, setting up a clash against Chinese 12th seed Zheng Qinwen in the semi-finals. Both Yastremska and Zheng aim to win their first-ever Grand Slam titles.
Yastremska's achievement is particularly significant, as she becomes the first women's qualifier to reach the semi-finals since Australia's Christine Matison in 1978. The 23-year-old player expressed her joy at making history and highlighted her message of support for Ukrainian fighters involved in the war against Russia. Yastremska noted that she feels proud of Ukraine and sees it as her mission to represent her country well.
Zheng, also known as "Queen Wen," came from a set down to defeat Russian player Anna Kalinskaya. The win marks a breakthrough for the 21-year-old Chinese player, as she had never reached beyond the quarter-finals in her previous Grand Slam appearances. Zheng acknowledged the tough competition in the first set but managed to stay focused and sealed the victory. She expressed her happiness and excitement about reaching the semi-finals.
Looking ahead, the clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev promises to be an intense battle. Alcaraz, aiming to win his third Grand Slam and challenge Novak Djokovic's number one ranking, has shown confidence in his performances. However, he recognizes the challenge posed by Zverev, who has won four out of their seven previous meetings. Zverev has also proven his resilience, enduring two grueling five-set matches. Both players are prepared for a tough battle, with Alcaraz knowing he needs to bring his best to succeed against the formidable Zverev.
As the Australian Open heads into the semi-finals, fans eagerly anticipate the exciting matchups and the exceptional performances that lie ahead. The stage is set for intense competition as these players strive to make their mark in tennis history.