Xtra Time Web Desk: In a stunning upset at the Wimbledon 2023 final, Novak Djokovic, the favorite and reigning World No. 1, suffered a defeat at the hands of the young Spanish player Carlos Alcaraz. Djokovic admitted to being surprised by the level of competition that Alcaraz brought to the grass court, as the Serb was expecting a more comfortable victory on his path to his 23rd Grand Slam singles title.
“Tough one to swallow, when you’re so close. But again, these are the moments you work for every single day, to play on the most important courts and in the most important tournaments in the world,” Djokovic said after the match.
“I’m really really grateful. I lost to a better player, I just have to congratulate him and move on,” he added.
The match started well for Djokovic, as he swiftly took the opening set with three service breaks, seemingly establishing control. However, Alcaraz fought back strongly in the next two sets, refusing to let the pressure get to him. The young Spaniard displayed remarkable resilience and skill, matching Djokovic shot for shot and ultimately clinching both sets.
Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz beats Novak Djokovic in five-set thriller to win his maiden Wimbledon title
Despite being on the brink of defeat, Djokovic rallied and managed to force the match into a deciding fifth set. The match reached its climax after an intense four hours and 43 minutes of play. Alcaraz showcased his mental and physical fortitude. In the end, the Spaniard emerged triumphant, defeating Djokovic 6-1, 6-7, 1-6, 6-3, 4-6, in what will be remembered as an epic clash on Centre Court.
“You never like to lose matches like this. I guess all the emotions have settled. I have to be grateful because I won a lot of tight matches in the past year, maybe I should have lost a couple of finals I won, so maybe this is even,” Djokovic said after losing the final to Alcaraz.
The Serb was looking to equal Roger Federer and Bjorn Borg’s record of winning five Wimbledon titles in a row. But that will not be the case anymore. Alcaraz also took his head-to-head count against Djokovic to 2-1.
