History-making Karatsev downs injured Dimitrov

Russian Aslan Karatsev, ranked 114 in the world, has made it to the Australian Open semi-finals after beating 18th seed Grigor Dimitrov 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2.

Karatsev has become the lowest ranked player to reach the semi-finals since Patrick McEnroe in 1991.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling,” Karatsev said post-match.

Grigor Dimitrov receives treatment during the third set. Photo: Tennis Australia/ MORGAN HANCOCK

“It’s the first time playing the men’s draw and the first time the semis.”

A back injury to Dimitrov in the third set helped him ease past his opponent after two sets of duelling tennis.

The first set went to the Bulgarian as Karatsev made several unforced errors.

The second saw Karatsev turn the tables, saving five breaks points to then break Dimitrov twice to level the match.

The third saw Dimitrov pull up with a back injury, he played on after a lengthy medical break but the problem grew.

Aslan Karatsev celebrates winning a set on Rod Laver Arena. Photo: Tennis Australia/ NATASHA MORELLO

His serve went and the Bulgarian was visibly shaken in 30 degree Celsius heat as Karatsev seized his opportunity.

“It was a really tough one in the beginning for me,” Karatsev said.

I held my nerve. It was still tricky and in the second set I tried to find a way to play and then the third I felt better.

The heat was too much. I just try to play every match.”

Karatsev will meet the winner of the Novak Djokovic – Alexander Zverev match in the last four.

Peter Rowe

Recent Posts

Davis Cup Final to mark Nadal goodbye to tennis

Rafael Nadal will bring down the curtain on his career next month as he plays his…

4 weeks ago

Wimbledon lowers the boom on human linecalling

Wimbledon on Wednesday brought an end to human linecalling at the most traditional of the…

4 weeks ago

Djokovic rolls Cobolli as Shanghai fights to restore order

Novak Djokovic returned to action after waiting tow days to play as the rain-hit Shanghai…

4 weeks ago

Innocent umpiring error screws Stan in Shanghai

Stan Wawrinka may have been inadvertently short-changed during Monday's third-round loss at the Shanghai Masters…

4 weeks ago

Sinner sweeps Fritz to win US Open

Jannik Sinner schooled Taylor Fritz 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 to win his second Grand Slam title…

2 months ago

Sabalenka wins Open title for Grand Slam hat-trick

Aryana Sabalenka completed a Grand Slam title hat-trick on Saturday as she fought from 5-3…

2 months ago