Novak Djokovic Advances to Dubai Championships Semifinals

Novak Djokovic showed why he remains one of tennis greatest champions, defeating rising star Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 6-2 in the Dubai Championships quarterfinals. The 24-time Grand Slam winner displayed vintage form to outclass the young Spaniard and advance to his first ATP semifinal of 2026.

Djokovic controlled the match from the baseline, using his exceptional return game to neutralize Alcaraz powerful serve. The Serbian broke serve twice in the opening set, capitalizing on unforced errors from his opponent who struggled to find his rhythm on the hard courts of Dubai.

The second set was even more dominant for Djokovic, who raced to a 4-0 lead before Alcaraz could mount any sustained resistance. The 36-year-old moved with the fluidity of a player half his age, covering the court effortlessly and dictating play with precise shot placement.

Alcaraz, who entered the tournament as the second seed, appeared frustrated by his inability to break down Djokovic defensive wall. The 22-year-old managed just two winners in the second set while committing 15 unforced errors, a stark contrast to his typically aggressive style.

Djokovic will face either Daniil Medvedev or Alexander Zverev in the semifinals as he seeks his sixth Dubai title. The victory marks his best performance since returning to competition following a brief off-season break, suggesting he may be rounding into form ahead of the upcoming Masters 1000 events.

For Alcaraz, the defeat serves as a reminder that despite his meteoric rise and multiple Grand Slam victories, he still has work to do against the games all-time greats. The Spanish sensation will need to regroup quickly with the Indian Wells Masters just weeks away, where he will look to defend ranking points and regain momentum.