Tennis legend Novak Djokovic advanced to yet another Australian Open quarterfinal, defeating Czech player Jiri Lehecka in straight sets 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4). The victory sets up an eagerly anticipated clash with young Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz.

The 37-year-old Serbian’s win carries historical significance, as he now shares the record for most Australian Open quarterfinal appearances (15) with Roger Federer. This achievement puts them one ahead of fellow tennis greats Rafael Nadal and John Newcombe. Additionally, Djokovic extended his overall record for major quarterfinal appearances to 61, surpassing Federer’s 58.

“Being in a quarterfinal, I’m going to approach the match the same as I did in the previous matches against him, and let’s see. When we are seeing him playing, he seems like he’s young again, so… It’s unbelievable. He’s in a really good shape.” said Alcaraz of Djokovic.

On the other side of the matchup, 21-year-old Alcaraz, despite already holding four Grand Slam titles, will be seeking his first deep run in Melbourne. The third-seeded Spaniard progressed after his opponent Jack Draper was forced to retire while trailing 7-5, 6-1.

The quarterfinal showdown between the 10-time Australian Open champion Djokovic, who is pursuing a record 25th Grand Slam title, and Alcaraz is scheduled for Tuesday.