Melbourne: Novak Djokovic has advanced to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open following a walkover victory after his scheduled opponent, Czech player Jakub Mensik, withdrew from the tournament due to injury.
The 18-year-old Mensik, seeded 16th, pulled out less than 24 hours before his fourth-round match, citing worsening abdominal muscle pain. As a result, Djokovic progressed without taking the court, securing his place in the last eight of the year’s first Grand Slam.
Alongside Djokovic, men’s world number one Carlos Alcaraz and women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka also booked their spots in the Australian Open quarterfinals, continuing impressive campaigns in Melbourne.
Mensik Forced to Withdraw Due to Abdominal Injury
Mensik confirmed that he made the difficult decision after failing a late fitness test. The Czech teenager revealed that his condition deteriorated following consecutive matches earlier in the tournament.
“The pain in my left abdominal muscle kept getting worse,” Mensik said. “If I had played the match, it would have been a major risk to my health and to the tournaments ahead.”
Mensik had defeated Ethan Quinn in straight sets during the third round on Saturday but was unable to recover in time for the next match. Medical advice ultimately ruled him out of competition, granting Djokovic a walkover into the quarterfinal stage.
Djokovic Moves Closer to Historic 25th Grand Slam Title
The walkover adds another milestone moment to Djokovic’s extraordinary Australian Open journey. The Serbian legend has already won the tournament a record 10 times and remains the most successful men’s player in Grand Slam history with 24 major titles.
Just one day before the walkover announcement, Djokovic achieved another historic feat by defeating Botic van de Zandschulp in the third round. That victory marked his 400th career singles win at Grand Slam level — a record unmatched in the modern era.
At 38 years of age, Djokovic continues to defy expectations, showing remarkable consistency and physical resilience. With his place in the quarterfinals secured, he now stands just three wins away from capturing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam crown.
The Serbian star will learn his quarterfinal opponent after the completion of remaining fourth-round matches.
Alcaraz Reaches Australian Open Quarterfinals for Third Straight Year
Men’s world number one Carlos Alcaraz also delivered a composed performance to move into the quarterfinals for the third consecutive year at the Australian Open.
The Spanish sensation defeated American Tommy Paul in straight sets, winning 7-6(6), 6-4, 7-5 in a high-quality encounter that lasted over two and a half hours.
Alcaraz displayed his trademark aggression and athleticism, handling pressure moments calmly-particularly in the opening-set tiebreak-before sealing the match in three tight sets.
With this victory, Alcaraz has now won all 12 sets he has played in the tournament so far, underlining his excellent form early in the season.
The 21-year-old will face Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinals, setting up a highly anticipated clash between speed, stamina, and contrasting playing styles. De Minaur will have strong home support as he attempts to reach his first Australian Open semifinal.
In another men’s quarterfinal matchup, Germany’s Alexander Zverev is scheduled to face rising American star Learner Tien.
Sabalenka Continues Dominance in Women’s Singles
In the women’s draw, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka continued her commanding run at the Australian Open with a straight-sets victory over Canada’s 19-year-old Victoria Mboko.
The Belarusian world number one won the match 6-1, 7-6(1), demonstrating both power and composure under pressure. While the first set was one-sided, Mboko challenged strongly in the second before Sabalenka dominated the tiebreak.
With the win, Sabalenka advanced to the Australian Open quarterfinals for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing her reputation as one of the most consistent performers on hard courts.
During the match, Sabalenka also achieved a remarkable milestone by winning her 22nd consecutive tiebreak-an extraordinary statistic highlighting her mental strength in decisive moments.
She remains one of the leading contenders to retain her title and secure back-to-back championships in Melbourne.
Alcaraz Chasing Rafael Nadal’s Historic Record
Beyond his immediate success, Carlos Alcaraz is also pursuing a significant milestone in tennis history. Should he win the Australian Open this year, he would become the youngest player ever to complete a Career Grand Slam-winning all four major titles at least once.
The current record is held by his compatriot Rafael Nadal, who achieved the feat at the age of 24. Alcaraz, already a US Open and Wimbledon champion, would further cement his status as the defining player of the new generation if he lifts the trophy in Melbourne.
His consistent performances, maturity under pressure, and improved hard-court game have made him one of the strongest title contenders alongside Djokovic.
Australian Open Quarterfinal Line-Up Takes Shape
As the tournament enters its decisive phase, the Australian Open continues to deliver compelling storylines-from veteran brilliance to youthful ambition.
Djokovic’s pursuit of history, Alcaraz’s chase for legacy, and Sabalenka’s dominant title defence have created a thrilling atmosphere at Melbourne Park.
With the quarterfinal matchups now confirmed, fans around the world can expect intense battles as the world’s top players compete for a place in the semifinals of the season’s first Grand Slam.
The Australian Open once again proves why it remains one of the most dramatic and prestigious events on the global tennis calendar.
