Serena Williams gives verdict on Carlos Alcaraz's chances of surpassing Novak Djokovic
NewsFriday, 24 October 2025 at 16:37
Carlos Alcaraz has gained millions of fans worldwide in the last few years, but is WTA icon Serena Williams among them?
Alcaraz's rise to worldwide stardom began just as Williams' legendary career was ending. The 23-time Grand Slam champion made her final appearance in the 2022 US Open third round, losing to Ajla Tomljanovic.
At the same tournament, a 19-year-old Alcaraz secured his maiden Grand Slam title. He overcame Casper Ruud in the final after winning three consecutive five-set matches, including an all-time classic against Jannik Sinner in the quarterfinal.
Alcaraz has won five more Grand Slams since, most recently a second title at the 2025 US Open. That success in New York allowed him to overtake Jannik Sinner as the ATP world No. 1 after the Italian had occupied that spot for 15 months.
The two-time Wimbledon winner's popularity is also due to his electrifying style. His athleticism, shot-making, and willingness to smile during matches have endeared him to countless fans all over the world.
Williams has been added to the list of those who admire Alcaraz. Speaking at the Princess of Asturias Awards, the American said she always roots for the 22-year-old whenever he plays.
"Alcaraz is doing incredible things. I’m a huge fan of Alcaraz. I always cheer him on."
She was then asked about his chances of breaking Novak Djokovic's 24 Grand Slam singles titles, a record he shares with Margaret Court. Williams thinks it is possible, but did not provide a prediction.
"At this point, anything is possible. When Federer started, no one thought he could surpass Sampras, and he did. Then Rafa did the same, and then Djokovic. Carlos is very young, he has great rivals, but of course it’s possible. Records are there to be broken."
Williams is correct that Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic ushered in an era of dominance in men's tennis that few thought was possible. One player overtaking Sampras' 14 Grand Slams seemed unlikely, but the three men moved way ahead of that tally.
Alcaraz receiving support from one of the most legendary figures in tennis history could give him an additional boost as he enters the season's final stretch. The Spaniard does not think he is in his prime yet.
What does Serena Williams think of Jannik Sinner?
Although Williams has never said she cheers for Sinner, indicating that she prefers Alcaraz, the seven-time Australian Open champion previously praised the world No. 2 for his level and enjoys watching him.
However, Williams also caused a stir with her remarks about Sinner's controversial doping case. He served a three-month ban earlier this season in a case settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency after a protracted saga.
The 44-year-old claimed she would have received a much harsher punishment in the same situation. Williams caveated by saying she still liked Sinner, but the remarks generated much attention.
Some accused Williams of making the situation about herself for no good reason, while others thought it fairly reflected her experience as a woman of color who has experienced sexism and racism.
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