Carlos Alcaraz showcased his dynamic talent and youthful energy to triumph over the seasoned Novak Djokovic, clinching a spot in his third consecutive Grand Slam final with a score of 6-4, 7-6 (4), 6-2 at the US Open. Despite Djokovic’s illustrious career and record as a 24-time major champion, he appeared resigned as the match progressed, suffering semi-final exits at all four Grand Slam events this season.
Ranked No. 2, Alcaraz’s victory sets up a championship face-off against either top-seed Jannik Sinner or No. 25 Felix Auger-Aliassime, with the final scheduled for Monday AEST, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s attendance. At just 22, Alcaraz is aiming for his sixth major title and second win at Flushing Meadows, having previously defeated Sinner at the French Open but lost to him at Wimbledon.
This match marked Djokovic’s continued frustration as he seeks to become the first player to claim a 25th major title. Alcaraz and Sinner have been formidable forces in recent tournaments, collectively seizing the last seven major championships, while Djokovic secured three in the same timeframe.
Throughout the encounter, Djokovic displayed signs of struggle, with his shots often misfiring. An off moment in the second set disrupted his usual rhythm, leading to visible frustration. Despite moments of brilliance that drew cheers from the crowd, including a stunning two-handed backhand and a breathtaking rally, they were not enough to overturn Alcaraz’s commanding performance.
Despite racking up 30 unforced errors, Alcaraz maintained composure, stating, “It wasn’t the best level of the tournament for me, but I kept a cool level from the beginning to the last point.” Choosing to receive after winning the coin toss, Alcaraz immediately broke Djokovic’s serve and continuously pressured the veteran.
The match was marked by exhilarating exchanges, with both players delivering extraordinary shots that thrilled the audience. At one point, Djokovic’s triumphant celebration after breaking Alcaraz’s serve was overshadowed by the young Spaniard’s resilience, who quickly reclaimed momentum.
Alcaraz’s previous days off, including a round of golf with 2017 Masters champion Sergio Garcia, seemed to rejuvenate him for this pivotal match. With a vibrant new hairstyle and a signature pink sleeveless shirt, Alcaraz appeared both confident and prepared.
As the tournament progresses, tension mounts around the impending final, where Alcaraz will look to further cement his rising legacy in the tennis world, while Djokovic contemplates a return to form in future competitions. The contrasting journeys of these two players highlight the ever-evolving landscape of professional tennis, showcasing both veteran experience and youthful prowess on the grand stage.