LONDON — In an electrifying semifinal clash, Carlos Alcaraz did what was necessary to orchestrate the eagerly anticipated Grand Slam rematch, narrowly dodging a fifth set to overcome Taylor Fritz 6-4, 5-7, 6-3, 7-6 (6) on Friday, positioning himself just one win away from capturing his third consecutive title at Wimbledon.
Next up, Jannik Sinner delivered an impressive performance, dominating a less-than-fully-fit Novak Djokovic 6-3, 6-3, 6-4, securing his inaugural spot in the final at the prestigious All England Club.
Brace yourselves for Sunday: it’s No. 1 Sinner versus No. 2 Alcaraz for the championship on the lush grass courts of Wimbledon, only five weeks after their unforgettable showdown at the French Open.
In that encounter, Sinner surged to a two-set lead and had three match points, but Alcaraz staged a phenomenal comeback, triumphing after an astonishing 5 hours, 29 minutes filled with dazzling displays from both players.
Alcaraz and Sinner’s Epic Encounter in Paris
Reflecting on their memorable clash in Paris, Alcaraz began, “Probably the best,” before pausing. “I mean, ‘probably’ no. It was the best match I’ve ever played. I expect the same level of intensity on Sunday — it’s going to be a fantastic final. I’m thrilled!”
He added with a grin, “I hope we don’t play for 5 1/2 hours again. But if it comes to that, I will.” Who wouldn’t anticipate an incredible showdown?
“Let’s hope it’s as good as last time,” Sinner remarked. “I’m not sure it can get any better!”
Men’s Tennis Dominated by the Top Two
At just 23 and 22, Sinner and Alcaraz are redefining men’s tennis, standing as its undisputed leaders. This marks the seventh consecutive major tournament to be claimed by one of them.
Alcaraz boasts a perfect 5-0 record in Grand Slam finals, while Sinner has secured three major titles.
“What we’re achieving right now is phenomenal for tennis,” Alcaraz stated confidently, as he heads into Sunday on a 24-match winning streak. Sinner will appear in his fourth consecutive Grand Slam final, having triumphed at the U.S. Open last September and the Australian Open earlier this year.
Dating History and Rivalry
Alcaraz leads their head-to-head with a score of 8-4, having won their last five encounters.
He believes their recent matchup won’t influence Sinner this time around. “He’ll be in better shape physically and mentally. He’ll be ready to give his all on Sunday,” said Alcaraz, who had to rally from a 6-4 deficit in the fourth-set tiebreaker against Fritz.
As Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal step back, Sinner and Alcaraz are stepping up, taking control of the sport.
The legendary Federer and Nadal have retired, while Djokovic, now 38, faced an unfortunate exit following a fall during his quarterfinal. This abrupt defeat halted his pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon title and a historic 25th major.
Djokovic’s Plans for the Future
Djokovic has confirmed plans for at least one more Wimbledon appearance, having reached the finals in the last six championships, winning four and narrowly finishing behind Alcaraz in the recent years.
With tennis icons Bjorn Borg and celebrities like Anna Wintour and Leonardo DiCaprio in attendance, Alcaraz dazzled with his electrifying shots, often punctuated by enthusiastic shouts of “Vamos!” and celebratory gestures.
The temperature soared above 30 degrees Celsius under a cloudless sky, challenging fans in the stands for the second successive day.
As the pop of a Champagne cork resonated in the audience just before the match, Alcaraz swiftly broke to take a 1-0 lead, showcasing his prowess by returning a blistering 135 m.p.h. serve and finishing the rally with a deft drop shot.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that Fritz displayed notable skills, hitting quality shots that would have bested many competitors on the grass.
But as anyone, including Sinner, recognizes, Alcaraz is no ordinary competitor.
“He has a multitude of ways to secure a win,” Fritz remarked.
