The 37-year-old Serb, who is gunning for a record 25th Grand Slam title and 11th Melbourne crown, beat 24th seed Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) on Rod Laver Arena.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - Novak Djokovic said he was braced for"a big battle" after setting up a blockbuster Australian Open quarter-final with Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday.
His reward is a showdown on Tuesday with third seed Alcaraz. At 21, he is already a four-time Slam winner but has never advanced beyond the Australian Open quarter-finals. "He's a very dynamic, explosive player. Incredibly talented. Charismatic player. Great to watch -- not that great to play against," he added with a smile.
They have crossed paths at Grand Slams three times, twice in the Wimbledon decider with the Spaniard winning on both occasions."When we are seeing him playing, he seems like he's young again.... it's unbelievable. He's in a really good shape," said Alcaraz.ALCARAZ 'FEELING GREAT' The young Czech changed tactics in a closer set three, pushing Djokovic to the net more while picking up his serving intensity.Against Draper, Alcaraz was well on top when the Briton pulled the pin on a sweltering afternoon because of"multiple areas really in pain".
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