Carlos Alcaraz had a brief moment of uncertainty in the Wimbledon men’s final against Novak Djokovic on Sunday, nearly letting a certain victory slip through his fingers. Initially, Alcaraz dominated the match, winning the first two sets and holding firm against a third-set surge from Djokovic. Serving at 5-4, 40-love for the championship, Alcaraz double-faulted, missed several shots, and the score quickly became 5-all. The momentum seemed to shift, offering Djokovic a glimmer of hope.
However, Alcaraz regained his composure and closed the match 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (4) within an extra 20 minutes of play. At just 21 years old, this victory marks Alcaraz’s fourth Grand Slam title. “For me, this is the most beautiful tournament, the most beautiful court, and, obviously, the most beautiful trophy,” Alcaraz said upon receiving the champion’s trophy from Kate, the Princess of Wales.
This final was a rematch of their last year’s Wimbledon encounter, which Alcaraz won in five sets. This time, despite a brief stumble while holding three match points, Alcaraz managed to win more comfortably. “It was difficult for me,” Alcaraz admitted, reflecting on his resolve to stay calm and positive, which ultimately led him to his second major title in a row following his French Open triumph.
Djokovic, aiming for an eighth Wimbledon title and a record 25th major overall, fell short. Having undergone knee surgery less than six weeks prior, the 37-year-old Djokovic was not at his peak performance. “When I reflect on what I’ve been through, I have to say that I’m very satisfied,” Djokovic said.
The match saw moments of Djokovic’s usual brilliance, yet he struggled, particularly in the first two sets where his performance was below par. Alcaraz claimed his first major break of Djokovic in the third set amidst enthusiastic cheers from the crowd, leading to a thrilling tiebreaker. Alcaraz secured his fourth match point and remained unflappable, ultimately celebrating with his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, and others.
The opening game, sprawling over nearly 14 minutes with seven deuces and 20 points, hinted at a potentially long and competitive match. While Alcaraz’s dynamic play, marked by return winners and superb defense, challenged Djokovic from the start, it was the third set that brought the most competitive play.
Despite showing remarkable touches, Djokovic was outplayed by Alcaraz’s versatility and technique. Alcaraz’s performance was impressive across all aspects of the game, winning points with various strategies, including forehand winners and drop shots. Djokovic recognized Alcaraz’s talent days before the final, noting the similarities between their playing styles.
Alcaraz, at the beginning of what promises to be a prolific career, expressed his determination to continue pushing forward: “I want to keep going.”