As the 2026 Australian Open heads into Day 13 in Melbourne Park, all eyes turn to the men’s singles semifinals — the penultimate step before the Grand Slam final on Sunday.
With the top four seeds still standing and pride, history and a spot in the final on the line, Friday’s matches promise high drama, elite shot‑making and compelling narratives.
Dream Semis Featuring the Top Four Seeds
For only the second time in recent years, the men’s draw has held to seeding perfectly, leaving the No. 1 through No. 4 players still in contention at this stage.
That sets up two marquee matchups:
1️⃣ Carlos Alcaraz vs. Alexander Zverev
World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz continues his relentless march through Melbourne, having not dropped a set en route to his first Australian Open semifinal. His blend of athleticism, shot variety and fearlessness on big points has made him the favourite — and he’s now on the brink of reaching his first AO final and pushing toward a career Grand Slam.
Alexander Zverev, seeded No. 3, has enjoyed a resurgence in form and confidence, using his heavy serve and big forehand to dispatch opponents. The pair are evenly split 6–6 in head‑to‑head meetings, so this one could go deep and tactical, with momentum swings a key factor.
Key subplot: can Zverev’s experience and power disrupt Alcaraz’s all‑court brilliance — or will the Spaniard’s relentless pace take him through?
2️⃣ Novak Djokovic vs. Jannik Sinner
Jannik Sinner arrives as the defending champion and arguably the most in‑form player of the two, having beaten Djokovic in their last five consecutive meetings. He’s unbeaten in this tournament so far and is hunting a third straight Melbourne final.
Novak Djokovic, the ten‑time AO champion and all‑time Grand Slam leader, enters this semi with a chance to chase a record‑breaking 25th major. Despite an unusual path — benefitting from opponent retirements and walkovers — the Serbian legend still boasts unparalleled experience and mental toughness.
Narrative watch: Will Sinner’s confidence and tactical command continue to frustrate Djokovic — or can the 38‑year‑old produce a vintage performance on one of tennis’s biggest stages?
What’s at Stake
With a trip to the Australian Open final on the line, Friday’s semis are about more than just progression:
Alcaraz aims to finally break through in Melbourne and edge closer to the rare career Grand Slam achievement.
Zverev is chasing his first Grand Slam final appearance at the Australian Open and will revel in upsetting one of the sport’s brightest stars.
Sinner wants to add another final appearance — and potentially another major title — to cement his position among the emerging elite.
Djokovic remains a constant threat in best‑of‑five tennis; one inspired week could see yet another deep run in a Melbourne summer he has dominated historically.
When and How to Watch
The semis are scheduled across two sessions on Day 13 (Friday, 30 January 2026), with coverage provided globally across broadcasters and streaming platforms — including ESPN in the U.S. and free options like 9Now in Australia (with regional restrictions).
As the sun and lights shine down on Melbourne Park, Day 13 promises intense tactical battles, generational storylines and potential Grand Slam history.
Whether it’s Alcaraz’s explosive style, Sinner’s rising dominance, Zverev’s power game or Djokovic’s quest for glory, Friday’s semis are shaping up to be unforgettable — and a true showcase of men’s tennis at its elite best.
