Novak Djokovic tamed Carlos Alcaraz in a late-night blockbuster to set up an Australian Open semi-final with Alexander Zverev as two-time women's defending champion Aryna Sabalenka fought on.

The 37-year-old Djokovic rolled back the years at the scene of his greatest achievements on Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 triumph sealed close to 1:00 am.

Following his win, Djokovic spoke candidly about Alcaraz, praising him for his performance and claiming that the Spaniard have a bright future. 

"My utmost respect and admiration for Carlos and everything he stands for and has achieved so far in his young career. He has had a terrific career and is an even better competitor. The youngest ever World No. 1, with four Grand Slam titles, and we're going to see a lot of him—maybe not as much as I’d like—but he’s definitely going to be there more than me. I honestly wish this match had been the final," Djokovic said.

The Serb surged into the semi-finals and a date with world number two Zverev to edge closer to an 11th Melbourne crown and all-time record 25th Slam title.