Novak Djokovic acknowledged the contribution of playing rival-turned-coach Andy Murray after his dramatic victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open quarter-finals.

The 37-year-old lost the first set against Alcaraz before also suffering with an injury that he took two lots of painkillers for.

But after sealing the victory, which he wrapped up around 1am local time, the former world number one went straight to coach Murray and embraced him.

"It was kind of a gesture of appreciation and respect for him for the fact that he's out there and he doesn't need to be," said Djokovic, who is a week older than his coach.

"He accepted to work with me. He's giving all his support to me, to the whole team, and trying to make it work."

Djokovic is in the hunt for a record 25th grand slam title in Melbourne and brought in Murray to help him achieve that feat.

Both were understandably delighted when the seventh seed was able to overcome Alcaraz.

"This was a huge win for all of us, including Andy and myself, for the relationship," said Djokovic.

"That's why I went to him, because I felt very grateful that he's there."

When the partnership between Djokovic and Murray was initially announced, there was unsurprisingly a lot of media coverage.

Murray had described it as a "unique opportunity" and, with the Australian Open being a trial run for the partnership, Djokovic thinks their relationship is developing.

"I feel more and more connected with Andy every day," said Djokovic before his quarter-final victory.

"We face challenges every single day. People don't see that. We try to make the most out of every day and grow together.

"He's been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be."