I did it for myself, not for the tennis generation: Carlos Alcaraz after Wimbledon win against Novak Djokovic

 

Spain’s tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz has been the talk of the town since his maiden Wimbledon title. The Spaniard bested seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic on Sunday at Centre Court to write his name in the history books.

The youngster defeated the veteran Serbian by 1-6 7-6(6) 6-1 3-6 6-4 to become the first man to beat Djokovic at SW19 since 2017. Alcaraz played some of the best tennis to come out on top against a tough opponent like Djokovic.

After losing the first set by 6-1, Alcaraz bounced back in style to win the next two sets. Djokovic came back in the fourth set but the 20-year-old held his nerves in the deciding final set. With this win, Alcaraz retained the numero uno position in the ATP rankings and also became the first player to qualify for the Nitto ATP Finals.

Alcaraz feels this win will give confidence to the other young players that Novak Djokovic is beatable in the Grand Slams events. In his post-match press conference, the 20-year-old was asked if this is a changing of the guard moment.

Alcaraz said, “Well, I did it for myself, not for tennis generation, honestly. It was great. Beating Novak at his best, in this stage, making history, being the guy to beat him after 10 years unbeaten on that court, is amazing for me.

“It’s something that I will never forget, that’s for sure. As I said, it’s great for the new generation, as well, I think to see me beating him and making them think that they are capable to do it, as well. It’s great for me and I think for the young players, as well.”

Meanwhile, Alcaraz recently lost the French Open 2023 semifinal against Novak Djokovic in four sets after suffering from cramps. The Spaniard revealed he prepared in a different way mentally.

“I am a different player than the French Open. I grew up a lot since that moment and I learned a lot from that moment.

“I prepared a little bit differently mentally before the match so I could deal with the pressure and the nerves better than I did at the French Open. I think it was the mental part that allowed me to stay there during the five sets.”

Alcaraz will look to continue his good show and he will aim to now defend his US Open title.