Carlos Alcaraz delivered a memorable performance against Novak Djokovic on Center Court at Wimbledon, becoming the youngest player in the Open era to achieve the Roland-Garros/Wimbledon double. The Spaniard's precocity mirrors that of his elder compatriot Rafael Nadal in the early 2000s.
At just 21 years and 70 days old, Alcaraz made history by winning his fourth Grand Slam, surpassing the achievements of the 'Big 3' at the same age. He has as many Grand Slams as Nadal and Djokovic combined at this stage in their careers, and he has already spent 36 weeks at the top of the ATP rankings, a feat unmatched by Federer, Djokovic, or Nadal at his age.
In a dominant display, Alcaraz defeated Djokovic with a score of 6-2, 6-2, 7-6, preventing the Serbian from securing his 25th Grand Slam title. This victory marked Alcaraz's 18th win in 20 matches at Wimbledon, a record only surpassed by Australian Rod Laver, who had 19 wins in his first 20 appearances on English turf since the Open era began in 1968.
Alcaraz's performance was particularly notable as he retained his Wimbledon title, a feat that Nadal, despite playing in three consecutive finals between 2006 and 2008, did not manage. By reaching the final next season, Alcaraz could match his opponent's achievement of winning the tournament three times in a row.
The match, witnessed by Princess Kate Middleton, saw Djokovic struggling to keep up with Alcaraz's youthful energy and precision. Despite a valiant effort, the Serbian was unable to overcome the Spaniard's dominance, especially in the third set where Alcaraz missed three match points before finally securing the win in a decisive game.
- The match started with a reminiscent feel of last year's final, with Alcaraz winning a stifling service game from Djokovic after five break points and fourteen minutes. Djokovic, often overwhelmed and out of first balls, found himself trailing 4-1 before conceding the first set 6-2 in 41 minutes.
- The second set saw Djokovic's struggles continue as he conceded another break from the first game. Hesitant and frustrated, he lost his serve again at 4-2, allowing Alcaraz to lead two rounds to nothing in just over an hour.
- Despite a stronger start in the third set, Djokovic was unable to maintain his momentum. Alcaraz capitalized on his opportunities, particularly at 4-4, where he delivered powerful and precise returns to secure three match points. Although he missed his first chance, he eventually clinched the victory in the decisive game, with Djokovic's return into the net sealing his fate.
