Carlos Alcaraz's stunning five-set win over Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final had many people gasping in surprise, including Australia's Nick Kyrgios.
The mercurial Nick Kyrgios was among millions watching on TV worldwide at the breathtaking final in which Alcaraz ended Djokovic's decade-long dominance on Centre Court to win his second Grand Slam title in five pulsating sets.
When Alcaraz took control of the match from a set down, Kyrgios called Alcaraz 'a freak' in a tweet that has since garnered close to 5 million impressions on Twitter. Alcaraz, who is 16 years Djokovic's junior, showcased his full repertoire and extraordinary athleticism to outlast the Serb in rallies.
And Kyrgios did not stop there. He cunningly mocked BBC match commentator Andrew Castle and chair umpire Fergus Murphy who Kyrgios clashed with in the infamous second-round match against Karen Khachanov in Cincinnati in 2019, landing him one of the biggest tennis fines in history.
"Carlos Alcaraz is a freak."
Kyrgios lost to Djokovic in last year's Wimbledon final and pulled out from this year's edition at the 11th hour due to a wrist injury. The Aussie was equally impressed by Djokovic's resilience and mental strength, as he levelled the match in the fourth set and had a break point to take the lead in the fifth set.
Djokovic, however, fluffed his lines on a routine smash which he netted with an open court at his mercy. Although he did not particularly feel that was the turning point of the match, it was at such a critical juncture because Djokovic dropped his serve in the very next game.
"If somehow…. Like somehow if Novak can turn this around, I’m convinced he is not human."
By the time the dust settled and everyone caught their breath, Alcaraz fell to the hallowed Wimbledon turf with hands on his head. And the vanquished Djokovic, beaten on Wimbledon Centre Court for the first time in 10 years, trudged to the net to be the first to congratulate his 20-year-old opponent. And Kyrgios was appreciative of the 'feast' they served up.
"Haven’t watched a whole tennis match in a long time haha THANKYOU Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz for putting on that incredible performance. Congratulations to you both."
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