In a thrilling showcase that doubled as a prelude to the upcoming Australian Open, Carlos Alcaraz orchestrated a remarkable comeback after dropping the first set to triumph over rival Novak Djokovic in the Riyadh Season Tennis Cup in Saudi Arabia.
The clash between the two titans of tennis, the world’s top-ranked players, unfolded in the arid expanse of the Saudi desert. Alcaraz, the rising star, started the match by breaking Djokovic’s serve in the opening game.
Amidst a gripping exchange, the 20-year-old Spaniard persisted and eventually edged ahead 5-4 before closing out the match with determination. Djokovic, acknowledging Alcaraz’s prowess, commended the young athlete, expressing admiration for his humble nature and strong family values. “He’s one of the leaders of the sport today and definitely he’s going to carry this game in the future – in the next 10-15 years we’re going to see a lot of him. Tennis is in good hands,” said Djokovic.
In response, Alcaraz humbly praised Djokovic, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share the court with the Serbian veteran. “It’s incredible to share the court with him… learning from him is amazing,” remarked Alcaraz, reflecting on his admiration for Djokovic’s achievements and the chance to fulfill a childhood dream of facing him in competition.
The electrifying rivalry between Alcaraz and Djokovic has already seen captivating chapters written. In 2023, Djokovic prevailed over Alcaraz in the Roland Garros semifinals, only for the Spanish prodigy to exact revenge with a stunning victory in the Wimbledon final.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2023
LWLLWWWWWW Currently the world no.2, Alcaraz played his last match on the 18th of November when he was defeated by world no.1 Novak Djokovic 6-3 6-2 in the semifinal in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
At the moment, during this season Alcaraz achieved a composed 65-12 match record. The Spaniard clinched 6 titles in 2023 in Buenos Aires, Indian Wells, Barcelona, Madrid, London and Wimbledon. The Spaniard got to the final in Rio de Janeiro and Cincinnati.
Alcaraz is scheduled to compete next at the Australian Open (Australian Open). He will start from the main draw that will commence on the 14th of January.
Novak Djokovic in 2023
LWWWWWWWWL Ranked world no.1, the Serbian played his last match on the 25th of November when he was overcome by world no.4 Jannik Sinner 6-2 2-6 7-5 in the Rubber 2 of the Davis Cup (draw).
At present, during this year the Serbian owns a 56-7 win-loss record. Djokovic clinched 7 titles in 2023 in Adelaide, Australian Open, French Open, Cincinnati, U.S. Open, Paris and the Nitto ATP Finals. The Serbian was the finalist in Wimbledon.
Djokovic has scheduled to play next at the Australian Open (Australian Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 14th of January.
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic played each other 5 times. Their current head to head is 3-2 for Djokovic. Previously, the last time they locked horns, Novak Djokovic won 6-3 6-2 in the semifinal in Turin (Nitto ATP Finals) on the 18th of November 2023.
In the following video you can watch the key moments of their match.
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic |
| Embed from Getty Images |
