According to Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz’s game has characteristics of his own approach to the sport, as well as that of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
The 36-year-old Serbian lost against the 20-year-old Spaniard in a titanic Wimbledon final with 1-6, 7-6, 6-1, 3-6 and 6-4.
“I think Carlos took our best qualities and made them his own. I don’t think I have ever played against a player like him,” said Djokovic.
The winner of 23 Grand Slam titles believes that the young Spaniard plays with unprecedented maturity and possesses Nadal’s fighting spirit and defensive work, while he can also play with a touch of Federer’s flair.
At the same time, the newly crowned champion’s backhands and adaptability remind him a lot of his own game.
Two incredible players.
One 2023 #Wimbledon champion. pic.twitter.com/DgEtmoOqre
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
“Roger and Rafa obviously had their own strengths and weaknesses, but Carlos is a well-rounded player. His ability to adapt to any game and court surface is the key to a successful career.”
He hopes to play a few more matches against Alcaraz in the future – after all, it is good for tennis.
“He is going to be part of the ATP tour for a long time, while my playing time glass is running out. I would love it if we could play each other again for the US Open – the no. 1 and no. 2 player in the world who rumble each other in five sets. It’s very good for tennis.”
Does he have any disappointments after Sunday’s final?
“Undoubtedly the hatchet pot in the second set,” was his immediate reply.
Djkovovic ended up losing the set 7-6 and that paved the way for Alcaraz to fight his way to the ultimate title.
“My hitting then let me down and I made a bad mistake with a backhand shot. I shouldn’t have let that chance slip through my fingers.”
Classy words from the seven-time champion.
An emotional Novak Djokovic speaks after his #Wimbledon final defeat to Carlos Alcaraz… pic.twitter.com/Lvg980Sbn8
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
