Now he has proven his mettle on grass, in opposition to one of the best gamers in essentially the most prestigious event on the planet. Throughout an on-court ceremony after the match, Djokovic, who teared up when mentioning his son, graciously lauded Alcaraz. He famous that, sure, he knew Alcaraz can be an immediate power on crimson clay and blue paint. Now, grass, too? Already?
“I didn’t anticipate him to play so properly this 12 months on grass,” Djokovic stated. “However he’s confirmed that he’s one of the best participant on the planet, little question. He’s enjoying some implausible tennis on completely different surfaces and he deserves to be the place he’s.”
Even earlier than the racket smash, there was one other prolonged second when Djokovic might need gotten the sign that he was in for a difficult few years.
With Djokovic serving at 1-3 within the third set, the 2 males performed a 32-point sport with 13 deuces that lasted over 26 minutes. Each gamers ran and dove and made wonderful photographs, and the spectators hollered in delight on the extraordinary play, and the heart on show.
“The nerve Alcaraz confirmed was completely outstanding,” Evert stated.
Lastly, after Djokovic hit a forehand into the web, Alcaraz had damaged serve once more. He put his finger to his ear, asking the gang for extra noise, and proper there Djokovic needed to know. For as a few years as he can cling on, Alcaraz will in all probability be there, too, even on grass.
“I feel it’s good for the game, 1 and a couple of on the planet dealing with one another in virtually a five-hour, five-set thriller,” Djokovic stated. “Couldn’t be higher for our sport usually.”