Carlos Alcaraz moved another step closer to an elusive Australian Open title on Sunday, January 25, after defeating 19th seed Tommy Paul in the fourth round at Rod Laver Arena. The world No. 1 delivered a composed performance to secure a 7-6 (6), 6-4, 7-5 victory in two hours and 44 minutes.

The straight-sets win marked Alcaraz’s fourth consecutive such result in the tournament, reinforcing his growing authority as the championship enters its decisive stages. His ability to raise his level in pressure moments continues to separate him from the field in Melbourne.

Alcaraz is seeking the only Grand Slam title missing from his collection, with the season-opening major having eluded him so far. Sunday’s win pushed him closer to completing a full career slate of major championships.

Alcaraz steadies after early test

Paul began confidently and earned an early break, briefly disrupting Alcaraz’s rhythm in the opening set. The Spaniard gradually found his range, forcing a tiebreak and claiming it with cleaner shot selection in the decisive exchanges.

Once ahead, Alcaraz asserted control from the baseline, dictating play through the second and third sets. His consistency and patience limited Paul’s opportunities to regain momentum.

The American, a former top-10 player, was hoping to build on his semifinal run at the 2023 Australian Open. However, he struggled to maintain sustained pressure once Alcaraz settled into the match.

Quarterfinal return in Melbourne

Alcaraz closed out the contest with authority to reach the Australian Open quarterfinals for the third straight year. The milestone continues a steady progression after quarterfinal exits in Melbourne in both 2024 and 2025.

The 22-year-old will next face either Australian sixth seed Alex de Minaur or 10th seed Alexander Bublik, who were scheduled to meet later Sunday. A place in the semifinals will be at stake as Alcaraz continues his bid to break through at the year’s first major.