Ex-Slam Semifinalist Calls Alcaraz’s Domination Over Djokovic “Scary”
Andrea Petkovic was astounded by Carlos Alcaraz’s dominant performance in the Wimbledon final against Novak Djokovic, noting that for the first time, she “saw Djokovic in Alcaraz.” Alcaraz, coming off a Wimbledon win against Djokovic and his first French Open victory, entered the final as the favorite. Despite Djokovic not being in top form post-knee surgery, few expected Alcaraz to thoroughly outplay the seven-time champion with a 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (4) victory.
In the first two sets, Alcaraz left no room for Djokovic to maneuver. Though Djokovic improved his serving and returning in the third set, Alcaraz remained composed, sealing a straight-set win despite Djokovic’s late rally. Petkovic, a former world No. 9, described Alcaraz’s performance as a “scary” indication for the ATP competition, highlighting his exceptional game, depth, power, and variety.
Djokovic, candid about the match, admitted feeling “inferior on the court” to Alcaraz. He acknowledged Alcaraz’s superior play, variety, and powerful serves, conceding that he felt overpowered. Despite saving three championship points to force a tie-break in the third set, Djokovic couldn’t complete the comeback, losing after Alcaraz converted his fourth championship point.
Reflecting on his position compared to Alcaraz and current world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, Djokovic recognized their superior performance this season. After losses to Sinner in the Australian Open semifinal and Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final, Djokovic admitted he wasn’t at their level. He emphasized the need to improve his game to compete with them in future Grand Slam stages and the Olympics. Djokovic’s next challenge will be the Paris Olympics, where he might face Alcaraz or Sinner in the later rounds.
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