All in one: New Wimbledon king Alcaraz has the best of me, Federer and Nadal says Djoker
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TRIPLE THREAT: Carlos Alcaraz
Novak Djokovic has experienced everything possible on a tennis court during his trophy-laden 23-year career, but says he has never faced a player quite like Carlos Alcaraz.
Alcaraz dethroned the 36-year-old Serb on Centre Court on Sunday, winning a riveting Wimbledon final with a game-style Djokovic later described as like facing a blend of the “big three” – himself, Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer.
Subduing the World No.1 proved beyond even his powers as his quest for a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title and fifth in a row was thwarted, as was his bid to match Margaret Court’s record 24 Grand Slam titles.
Djokovic says of the 20-year-old: “I didn’t expect him to play so well this year on grass, but he’s proven he’s the best player in the world.
“I haven’t played a player like him ever, to be honest. I think people have been talking in the past 12 months or so about his game consisting of certain elements from Roger [Federer], Rafa [Nadal], and myself. I would agree with that.
“He’s got basically the best of all three worlds. He’s got this Spanish bull mentality, that we’ve seen with Rafa. I think he’s got some nice sliding backhands, some similarities with my backhands. He is a complete player.”
Of claiming his second major after winning the US Open last year, Alcaraz says: “It’s a dream come true for me... making history in this beautiful tournament.”
BY MARTYN HERMAN
dailyvoice@inl.co.za