Alcaraz Aims to Dethrone Djokovic at Australian Open

Carlos Alcaraz has expressed his desire to challenge Novak Djokovic‘s dominance at the Australian Open, which kicks off on Sunday at Melbourne Park‘s iconic Rod Laver Arena. Djokovic, a 10-time champion in Melbourne, will commence his quest for a 25th Grand Slam title against qualifier Dino Prizmic on the opening day.

On the other side of the draw, the second-seeded Alcaraz will face French veteran Richard Gasquet in round one. Alcaraz and Djokovic had an intriguing rivalry last year, with the Serbian winning their semi-final match at Roland Garros after Alcaraz was plagued by cramps. However, the Spaniard got his revenge at Wimbledon, clinching his second Grand Slam in an epic five-setter. Djokovic claimed victory in their subsequent two encounters, first in a lengthy Cincinnati Masters final and then at the ATP Tour Finals in Turin.

Alcaraz aims to end Djokovic’s winning streak at the Australian Open, where the Serbian has reigned supreme for nearly 15 years. Alcaraz stated, “It’s an extra motivation for me… playing against him in the tournament where he’s almost unbeaten. I’m looking to reach the final and hopefully playing a final against him. It would be great obviously.” The statistics of Djokovic’s Melbourne Park successes serve as additional motivation for Alcaraz.

Djokovic last competed in the United Cup for Serbia, where he suffered a wrist issue and was defeated in straight sets by Australia’s Alex de Minaur. However, Djokovic assured fans that the injury would not hinder his title defense. Alcaraz’s most recent match was at the ATP Tour Finals, where he fell 6-3 6-2 to Djokovic. Although Alcaraz emerged victorious in an exhibition match against Djokovic in December, he has chosen not to participate in any warm-up events prior to the Australian Open.

Alcaraz, confident in his abilities, stated, “I think I’m a guy who doesn’t need so much competition before a big tournament. I’m prepared to do good things here in the Grand Slam.” Reflecting on his and other young players’ contributions to the sport, Alcaraz acknowledged that they are forming a new generation. Amongst his peers, Alcaraz stands out as the only player who has already clinched a Grand Slam title, winning the 2022 US Open and defeating Djokovic in last year’s Wimbledon final.

Although he acknowledges room for improvement, Alcaraz expressed optimism about the upcoming season, both on and off the court. “I think everybody can be better. Everybody can improve… I’m not perfect, so I have to improve a lot of things on the court and off the court as well.” Alcaraz concluded with a smile, “I think this year, it’s going to be a good one.”