Djokovic glanced at his coaching box that included Andy Murray, while Alcaraz seemed to have a brief chat with another former world No.1 who was in his corner, Juan Carlos Ferrero.

It is the type of point that changes momentum, and an inspired Alcaraz indeed manufactured two break points in the next game.

But as the set and perhaps the match teetered, Alcaraz mishit a forehand and Djokovic successfully served and volleyed to hold.

Alcaraz didn’t get another chance.

Alcaraz sent a forehand into the net on match point, prompting a roar from Djokovic.

Seconds later, he and Murray hugged, and his kids stuck around even at 1am local time.

“I guess the key is recovery for me now,” said Djokovic, who overcame injuries in 2021 and 2023 to triumph at Melbourne Park.

“That’s all I’m thinking about. The extra day with no match comes at the perfect time for me. Hopefully I can come out (in the semifinals) and feel my best.”