It was one of the most talked about exhibition matches of recent years, with the showdown between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz living up to its billing in a grand manner in Saudi Arabia.
Alcaraz beat Djokovic 4-6 6-4 6-4 on a fast court in Riyadh, with the duo exchanging some top-class points as they whet the appetite for what is to come in the 2024 season. The occasion was also notable for Djokovic’s grace in defeat, as he used his on-court interview to pay the most glowing of tributes to the Spanish world No 2. “It’s fantastic to have Alcaraz in our sport,” said world No 1 Djokovic.
He is one of the leaders of this sport today and he is going to carry our sport for the next 10 to 15 years.
“We are going to see a lot of him, tennis is in good hands.” Djokovic appeared to be in good spirits despite his defeat against Alcaraz, with the high-quality contest mixed with moments of glorious winners from both players
Alcaraz was equally gushing in his praise for Alcaraz, with the respect between the top two men on the ATP rankings evident for all to see.
“It’s incredible to share the court with him in this event and in official tournaments. I am learning from him,” said Alcaraz.
“After watching him win the big tournaments I always dreamed about being in this position and playing against him face to face.
“I am really happy to play with him and hopefully, I can keep going. He seems like he is 20 so we are going to share the court more than once. “I want to congratulate him and thank him for playing this match with me.” Djokovic also offered some views on the imminent return of his old rival Rafael Nadal, who has arrived in Brisbane ahead of his return to action after a year away from the ATP Tour.
Nadal has downplayed his hopes of quickfire success as he makes his return to the game, yet Djokovic believes the 22-time Grand Slam champion will be a contender for the big titles in 2024.
“He is not the type to come back to the circuit just to play, let’s say, at an average level, to play a few games,” said Djokovic.
“He wants to win titles, he wants to be the best, that’s why he is what he is: a legend of our sport. I am sure that his training and preparations are done with the intention of winning a Grand Slam.
“It is great news for the tennis world that he’s coming back. He hasn’t played an entire year but he is one of the legends of our sport. “We want to see him play as much as possible. I hope both Carlos and I can have great matches against Rafa. It would be great for us and the sport.
“Tennis has grown so much over the last 20 years with the likes of (Roger) Federer, Nadal and Andy Murray. Everyone who has achieved great things in this sport globally. “I think in the last two decades it has grown so much and I’m so grateful to be part of this era. Hopefully, I can still keep going with the young guys. They make me very tired but I don’t give up.
