New Delhi, Jan. 27 -- Carlos Alcaraz took the blame on himself after his opponent Alex de Minaur was hit by a time violation during their men's singles quarterfinal match at the Australian Open 2026 on Tuesday. The incident took place during the closing stages of the first set at the Rod Laver Arena.

As De Minaur was going to serve, the umpire issued a time violation for taking too much time, leaving the Australian tennis surprised. It was also the first time De Minaur was serving in the game. The announcement took the crowd by surprise too who responded with loud boos.

However, it was Alcaraz, who approached the umpire and took the blame upon himself, clarifying that he wasn't ready. "I wasn't ready. I wasn't there," Alcaraz was heard ...