By Chalien Dantes

Carlos Alcaraz took another powerful step toward tennis history with a commanding win over Alex de Minaur to book his first-ever Australian Open semi-final.

The 22-year-old Spaniard swept aside the home favourite 7-5, 6-2, 6-1 on Rod Laver Arena, quieting the crowd and ending Australia’s hopes of a local men’s singles champion this year.

Alcaraz, who already owns six Grand Slam titles from triumphs at the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open, had never reached the final four in Melbourne before now.

He has moved through this year’s tournament without dropping a set and appears to be gathering momentum with each round.

After the match, Alcaraz said he feels his level continues to rise as the competition progresses, a warning sign for anyone standing between him and a place in the final.