<p>The effects of cryogenic quenching on the microstructural and tribological behaviour of Ti–6Al–4V alloy were investigated. Ti–6Al–4V alloy was heat-treated at 850&#xa0;℃ (α + β phase field), and subsequently subjected to different cooling methods (air, water, and cryogenic quenching). As the cooling rate increases, the near-surface α′-martensite fraction increased and α-grain coarsening in the surface-hardened region was progressively suppressed. The surface hardness increased due to the formation of α′-martensite network and suppressed α-grain coarsening. The cryo-quenched sample exhibited a surface hardness of 491 HV (approximately 6.5% higher than the water-quenched sample). The wear morphology reflected a hardened surface resulting from α′-martensite formation and suppressed α-grain coarsening. Consequently, the wear mechanism shifted from severe adhesive and abrasive wear with deep grooves to predominantly mild abrasive wear with minimizing surface damage and material loss. This behavior is consistent with the reduced oxidation of fine wear debris in the cryo-quenched sample, which may provide a mild lubricating effect. The cryo-quenched sample exhibited improved wear resistance, with a wear rate reduction of 17.8% compared to the water-quenched sample and 38% compared to the air-cooled sample. These findings highlight the potential of cryogenic quenching as an effective method for enhancing the wear resistance of Ti–6Al–4V alloy.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>