Alcaraz Aims to Follow in Djokovic’s Footsteps
New York — World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz sees Novak Djokovic as a model of dominance that every champion should aspire to before each Grand Slam. At 37 years old, Djokovic is pursuing his 25th Grand Slam title—an unprecedented achievement in men’s singles. According to Alcaraz, this highlights Djokovic’s “relentless” impact on the history of tennis.
“Honestly, Djokovic is like a destroyer at the Grand Slams,” Alcaraz said at the US Open press conference on August 26. “I’m 21 years old and have four titles, but I hope it doesn’t stop there. Djokovic never stops, always improving and showing his best at Grand Slams. That’s why he has achieved so much glory.”
Djokovic has won the US Open four times and could become the first player to successfully defend the title in 16 years, since Roger Federer in 2008. Alcaraz regards Djokovic as his biggest rival, stating: “We younger players hope he won’t keep winning. But first, we have to do our part.”
Alcaraz won his first Grand Slam at the US Open in 2022. That victory made him the youngest world No. 1 in history and sparked a breakout two-year period. However, Alcaraz is still developing and has often struggled with form during the hard-court season at the end of the year.
“I’ve been very busy this summer and, clearly, I regret not winning the Olympic gold medal against Djokovic,” Alcaraz added. “But the silver medal is also a great achievement, especially when facing an exceptional player like Nole. I was inconsistent in Cincinnati, but the recent break came at the right time. My goal is to be at 100% physical and mental strength for my first match.”
Alcaraz will face Australian player Li Tu in the first round of the US Open on August 28. He is in the same half of the draw as Jannik Sinner and would only meet Djokovic in the final. Djokovic has already advanced to the second round after defeating Radu Albot 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 in his opening match.
If Alcaraz wins a major in New York, he will join Djokovic in achieving one of the greatest feats in history by winning three Grand Slams in a single year. In January, Alcaraz had a slow start and only reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open.
