The Australian Open 2025 are heading towards an absolute highlight: the Serbs will meet in the semi-finals Novak Djokovic and the German Alexander Zverev each other. It is a duel between two generations, characterized by rivalry, incredible talent and the irrepressible will to prove themselves on the biggest stage in tennis. The encounter promises to be very exciting, as the two’s shared history does not reveal a clear favorite.
The duel: rivalry between two exceptional athletes
Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev are already on the tour 12 times encountered. The Serb leads 8:4 winswhereby he often had the upper hand, especially in Grand Slam tournaments. However, Zverev was able to win important games – including the semi-finals at the 2021 Olympic Games, which he won in three impressive sets.
The two have only faced each other once at the Australian Open: in 2021 in a high-class quarter-final, which Djokovic won after five exciting sets. Both players have evolved since then, and while Djokovic continues to dominate the top of world tennis, Zverev is struggling to secure his place among the elite.
Zverev: “I know that I can beat Djokovic”
For Alexander Zverev, this semi-final is more than just another match. The German has the chance to make history. After his Olympic victory in 2021 and several attempts in Grand Slam finals, he finally wants to celebrate the big triumph.
“I have a lot of respect for Novak, but I know I can beat him,” Zverev said ahead of the game. “It will be a matter of being brave and playing my game.” The 27-year-old showed strong form in Melbourne and prevailed in an epic five-set match against Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals. His serve game and improved mental strength will be key to standing up to Djokovic.
Djokovic: The King of Melbourne
Novak Djokovic is the undisputed king of the Australian Open. With 10 titles in Melbourne he holds the record and this year has once again proven why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time. His path to the semi-finals was characterized by dominance and precision, defeating Jannik Sinner in three sets in the quarter-finals.
Djokovic not only brings experience and mental strength, but also the knowledge of always getting the best out of himself in the crucial moments. Against Zverev he will try to dictate the tempo and put his opponent under pressure with his outstanding return game.
Prediction: Who will make it to the final?
The semi-final between Djokovic and Zverev will be a question of nerves, will and form on the day. While Djokovic goes into the game as the favorite, Zverev has proven several times that he can win against the best in the world. If Zverev delivers his first serve consistently and stays offensive, he has a realistic chance of a surprise.
Nevertheless, the experience and the Grand Slam mentality speak for Djokovic. The Serb knows exactly how to keep the upper hand in the important moments and has proven that he has few weaknesses when it comes to reaching another Grand Slam final.
Tip: Djokovic wins in four sets – but Zverev will push him to the limit.