• Carlos Alcaraz defeats Alexander Zverev in a thrilling five-set semi-final.
• Match lasted 5 hours and 27 minutes, marking the longest semi-final in Australian Open history.
• Alcaraz aims to become the youngest player to complete a career Grand Slam.
• Novak Djokovic won his semi-final against Jannik Sinner to set up a historic final.
• Both players faced physical challenges during their matches.

Carlos Alcaraz triumphed over Alexander Zverev in an epic five-set match, winning 6-4, 7-6 (5), 6-7 (3), 6-7 (4), 7-5, to reach his first Australian Open final. This victory not only marks a milestone for the 22-year-old, making him the youngest player in the Open era to reach finals of all four Grand Slam tournaments, but also increases his quest to become the youngest to complete a career Grand Slam, according to BBC and Al Jazeera.

The match was filled with drama, with Alcaraz battling through physical challenges including cramping during the crucial stages. At one point in the third set, he needed a medical timeout, an action that displeased Zverev, who felt the timeout was unmerited for a cramping issue. "I just said it was bullshit, basically," Zverev expressed after the match regarding the situation, highlighting the tension that unfolded during the semi-final, according to Reuters and SCMP.

Alcaraz persisted despite being two points away from losing in the third set, showcasing his mental strength. "I always say you have to believe in yourself no matter what you're struggling," he stated post-match, reflecting on the challenges faced during this marathon encounter, as reported by Reuters and BBC.

In the final, Alcaraz will face Novak Djokovic, who defeated Jannik Sinner in another thrilling five-setter to set the stage for a historic match. Djokovic, who will be vying for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title, commented on Alcaraz's preparation and potential for the final, noting the difference in their age and experience, as mentioned in Reuters and Al Jazeera.