S Poddar
Carlos Alcaraz, at just 21 years old, has already carved out an extraordinary career in tennis. Winning titles at an unprecedented rate, he continues to reveal only glimpses of his immense potential. With each victory, he edges closer to becoming the dominant force in the sport.
Alcaraz showcased his remarkable talent once more by delivering an outstanding performance under pressure. He overcame seven-time champion Novak Djokovic with a score of 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (4), securing his second consecutive Wimbledon title. This victory brings his major title count to four, placing him alongside Roger Federer as the only men to win their first four grand slam finals.
This win also sees Alcaraz join an elite group of six players who have achieved victories at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon in the same year, often referred to as the “Channel Slam.” Additionally, it marks his first successful defense of a grand slam title and his first time winning multiple grand slam titles in a single year.
Djokovic’s journey to the final was impressive, especially considering he had undergone meniscus surgery following the French Open. Despite not facing any top 10 opponents en route to the final, his path did not prepare him for the formidable challenge posed by Alcaraz.
A year prior, Alcaraz had demonstrated his mental fortitude and resilience by defeating Djokovic in a thrilling five-set match to claim his first Wimbledon title. The rematch began with Alcaraz breaking Djokovic’s serve in a grueling 13-minute opening game. This initial success set the tone for the match, with Alcaraz continuously pressuring Djokovic, who struggled to counter the young Spaniard’s aggressive baseline play.
Djokovic attempted to shorten points by frequently approaching the net, but Alcaraz consistently outmaneuvered him. By the time Alcaraz led 6-2, 2-0, Djokovic had won only four of his 14 net approaches. As the match progressed, Alcaraz’s confidence grew, unleashing powerful forehands, skillfully closing down the net, and keeping Djokovic on his toes with strategic drop shots.
Despite trailing by two sets, Djokovic continued to seek solutions, applying pressure with his serve. However, Alcaraz held firm, even when facing triple championship point at 5-4. A double fault and a well-placed forehand return from Djokovic brought tension, but Alcaraz’s excellent serve set up a forehand drive volley. Despite a spectator’s scream causing him to miss the shot, Alcaraz did not lose his composure. He forced a tiebreak, where he executed an audacious drop shot winner at 5-4, sealing his victory in a spectacular fashion.
