Djokovic Sees 'Many Similarities' Between Himself And Young Rival Alcaraz
ATP
Novak Djokovic is not afraid to speak about Carlos Alcaraz's qualities, as he sees several similarities between himself and the Spaniard.
The two first faced each other at the Madrid Open a few years ago, and the young Spaniard won that match. Their match was a teaser of what was coming in the following few years, as they have played some spectacular matches.
Djokovic has been better regarding actual wins so far, leading the H2H 3-2, but Alcaraz bested him in the only Grand Slam final they played so far. It happened at last year's Wimbledon, and this year, fans at SW19 will get a repeat of that final, as the Serbian will face Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final once more.
When asked about the Spaniard after his win over Lorenzo Musetti in the semi-final of the grass-court major, Djokovic gave a long response, breaking down just how he sees the 21-year-old.
"He’s so young but still has three grand slams already under his belt and going for his fourth. He surprised all of us last year with how he played in Queen's and Wimbledon, which he won back to back."
"You would think for someone growing up in Spain.. the way he’s playing.. clay court grand slam win which happened this year at Roland Garros… and US Open a few years ago was maybe not as surprising as Wimbledon."
Watching Alcaraz play on grass has been surprising to many but a pure joy for Djokovic. He even sees some similarities between himself and Alcaraz, mostly in how they're able to adapt to any surface, which Djokovic thinks is his greatest quality. To be able to do that at such a young age is hugely impressive.
"But the way he’s played the last couple years on grass has been terrific to watch to be honest. I see a lot of similarities between me and him in terms of ability to adapt and adjust to the surface."
"That’s probably his biggest trait is that he’s got skills to play equally well on every surface.. To adapt to a given opponent on that particularly day. He’s a very all around and complete player. It’s impressive what he’s done at such a young age."
