Carlos Alcaraz delivered a commanding performance to defeat tennis legend Novak Djokovic in the US Open semifinals on Friday, September 5. The 22-year-old Spaniard swept past the 38-year-old Serbian 6-4, 7-6 (4), 6-2 to book his second US Open final appearance. The win not only marked Alcaraz’s first triumph over Djokovic on hard courts but also ended the veteran’s chase for a historic 25th Grand Slam crown.
Early Break Puts Alcaraz in Control
The match began with immediate drama as Alcaraz broke Djokovic’s serve in the opening game. That early strike set the momentum for the first set, which the Spaniard closed out 6-4. Despite a modest first-serve percentage of 61% and 13 unforced errors, Alcaraz remained unchallenged on his own serve, not facing a single break point.
Analysts pointed out the contrast in energy between the players, with the 16-year age gap on display. Alcaraz’s explosive baseline game and heavy forehand, clocking regularly above 80 mph, forced Djokovic onto the back foot. The Spaniard, who had fallen to Djokovic earlier in the season at the Australian Open, appeared determined to seize control this time around.
Second Set Showcases Epic Fight
If the first set was about Alcaraz’s aggression, the second was a battle of wills. Djokovic came out with trademark resilience, racing to a 3-0 lead and reminding the crowd of his ability to turn the tide. But Alcaraz refused to back down, clawing his way back to 3-3 with powerful returns and fearless shot-making.
The set built to a dramatic tiebreak, where Alcaraz’s serve made the difference. Delivering big first serves at crucial junctures, he edged out Djokovic 7-4. The rallies were breathtaking, with both players stretching their defensive and offensive limits, but it was the younger man’s consistency under pressure that tipped the balance.
Djokovic Struggles Physically in Decisive Set
The physical demands of the match caught up with Djokovic in the third set. Calling for medical attention to his shoulder and neck, the Serbian appeared visibly drained. His serve faltered, highlighted by a costly double fault that handed Alcaraz another break at 2-1.
From there, Alcaraz ruthlessly tightened his grip. Djokovic’s movement slowed, and his usually reliable groundstrokes lacked penetration. Alcaraz pounced, securing the set 6-2 to seal victory in just under three hours. The statistics reflected the Spaniard’s dominance: 31 winners to Djokovic’s 15, and an impressive 84% success rate on first-serve points compared with Djokovic’s 66%.
Record-Breaking Milestone for Alcaraz
Beyond the victory itself, the result carried historic weight. Alcaraz became only the fifth man in the Open Era to reach seven Grand Slam finals before turning 23, joining legendsRemove featured image such as Bjorn Borg, Rafael Nadal, Mats Wilander, and Jim Courier. Even more remarkably, he reached the US Open final without losing a set, a feat accomplished by just five players at Flushing Meadows since 2000.
The win reinforced Alcaraz’s growing reputation as the future of men’s tennis. His ability to combine explosive athleticism with mental composure against one of the sport’s greatest competitors highlighted his maturity at such a young age.
Final Awaits: Sinner or Auger-Aliassime
Alcaraz’s next challenge will come against either Jannik Sinner or Felix Auger-Aliassime, who faced off in the second semifinal. Should Sinner prevail, it would set up a third consecutive Grand Slam final between the two rising stars, a rivalry that has already captivated tennis fans worldwide.
Additionally, the outcome of the final could influence the ATP rankings. A victory on Sunday may allow Alcaraz to reclaim the world No. 1 position, further adding to the stakes.
Alcaraz Reflects on Special Moment
Speaking after his triumph, Alcaraz expressed pride in both the result and his consistency throughout the tournament. “It’s a great feeling. Once again in the final here at the US Open, it feels amazing. It means a lot to me,” he said. Reflecting on the match, he admitted, “It wasn’t the best level of the tournament for me, but I just kept a good level from the beginning until the last point.”
His words underscored the mindset that carried him past Djokovic: the ability to stay focused, adapt under pressure, and maintain composure against a seasoned champion.
Looking Ahead
As the US Open final approaches, tennis fans are preparing for what could be another chapter in the sport’s generational shift. Djokovic’s quest for a record 25th Slam may have been halted, but Alcaraz’s victory symbolizes the new wave of talent redefining men’s tennis.
Whether against Sinner or Auger-Aliassime, Alcaraz’s presence in the final signals the dawn of a new rivalry-filled era, where youth, speed, and raw power are setting the pace. His semifinal performance not only denied history but also carved a piece of it for himself.
Sources: Reuters
