Now he has proven his mettle on grass, in opposition to the most effective 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 on the spot drive on pink clay and blue paint. Now, grass, too? Already?
“I didn’t anticipate him to play so properly this yr on grass,” Djokovic mentioned. “However he’s confirmed that he’s the most effective participant on the planet, little doubt. He’s taking part in some improbable tennis on totally 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 mentioned.
Lastly, after Djokovic hit a forehand into the web, Alcaraz had damaged serve once more. He put his finger to his ear, asking the group for extra noise, and proper there Djokovic needed to know. For as a few years as he can dangle on, Alcaraz will in all probability be there, too, even on grass.
“I believe it’s good for the game, 1 and a pair of on the planet dealing with one another in virtually a five-hour, five-set thriller,” Djokovic mentioned. “Couldn’t be higher for our sport generally.”