NEW YORK — In an electrifying showdown, Carlos Alcaraz harnessed his youthful vigor, agility, and inventive play to overcome the seasoned Novak Djokovic, the 24-time major champion, with a score of 6-4, 7-6 (4), 6-2 at the US Open on Friday, securing his spot in a third consecutive Grand Slam final.
As the match progressed, Djokovic appeared to accept his fate. The 38-year-old Serbian reached the semifinals in all four Grand Slam events this season but was unable to advance beyond that stage each time.
With this win, Alcaraz, seeded No. 2, is set to face either the top seed, Jannik Sinner, or No. 25 Felix Auger-Aliassime, vying for the prestigious title this Sunday, which will also see the attendance of President Donald Trump.
Alcaraz is in pursuit of his sixth major trophy and aims for a second triumph at Flushing Meadows. He previously bested Sinner at the French Open in June but fell to him at Wimbledon in July.
Should Sinner claim victory, he would become the first player to win consecutive titles in New York since Roger Federer achieved the remarkable feat five times in a row from 2004 to 2008.
Djokovic’s quest for a historic 25th title was thwarted once more.
At just 22, Alcaraz and 24-year-old Sinner have together snatched the last seven major championships and nine of the prior 12, while Djokovic secured the remaining three, including his last victory at the 2023 US Open.
From the outset, Djokovic’s shots lacked precision, and aside from a fleeting moment of brilliance in the second set, his usual energy was absent. His expressions of frustration were evident, rolling his eyes after errant shots and flexing his neck that had troubled him earlier in the tournament, even needing a trainer’s attention.
Yet, glimpses of brilliance shone through, highlighted by a spectacular two-handed backhand passing shot that drew wild cheers from the fans, who chanted his nickname, “No-le!” in hopes of rallying him towards a comeback.
In a moment of flair, Djokovic strutted to his towel box, shaking his right hand as if celebrating a memorable shot.
As Alcaraz served for the first set, an exceptional rally concluded near the net with a precise shot from Djokovic that drew a mistake, igniting excitement among the crowd. Djokovic smiled and gestured for more cheers, which the fans eagerly obliged.
However, Alcaraz quickly turned the tide, forcing return errors on subsequent serves at 118 m.p.h., leaving Djokovic visibly disappointed as he secured the first set.
Djokovic finally gained a break point with a ferocious return on a 132-m.p.h. serve, converting it as Alcaraz misfired a backhand long. Djokovic celebrated with an uppercut pose as the audience erupted into applause, chanting “No-le!” once more.
This marked only the second instance at this U.S. Open where an opponent had snagged one of Alcaraz’s service games.
Following a hold, Djokovic led the set 3-0, prompting speculation of an intense match ahead.
However, Alcaraz swiftly regained control, winning the next three games, notably showcasing a stunning cross-court forehand passing winner that even had Djokovic applauding him.
Unfazed, Alcaraz never faced another break point, a commendable feat. In the moments leading up to the match, Alcaraz acknowledged, “Now I am facing one of the best returners ever, if not the best.”
Alcaraz showcased his own talent in returns when he chose to receive after winning the coin toss, breaking Djokovic immediately.
While it may not have been a flawless performance, with both players racking up 30 unforced errors, Alcaraz’s efforts were more than sufficient.
“Today, I’d say, it wasn’t my best level of the tournament,” Alcaraz reflected, “but I maintained my composure from start to finish.”
Dressed in a stylish pink sleeveless shirt, Alcaraz sported nearly a full head of hair, a stark contrast to his buzz cut just two weeks prior, a mishap while getting a haircut from his brother.
Perhaps a refreshing day off on Wednesday made all the difference. Alcaraz enjoyed a round of golf with 2017 Masters champion Sergio Garcia, who was spotted in a front-row seat during Friday’s match.
Alcaraz humorously noted, “He owes me $200 right now,” hinting that he also triumphed on the golf course.
