(MENAFN- AsiaNet News) In a stunning display of prowess on Centre Court, Carlos Alcaraz secured his second consecutive Wimbledon title by defeating Novak Djokovic in a commanding straight-sets victory. The Spaniard, who had previously triumphed over Djokovic in a grueling five-set encounter in 2023, asserted his dominance on Sunday with a 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(4) win.
Alcaraz, 21, showcased remarkable form from the outset, breaking Djokovic's serve multiple times and maintaining his composure throughout the match. Despite a brief scare in the third set, where he let slip three championship points, Alcaraz sealed the victory in a decisive tie-break. His performance not only solidified his status as a rising star in tennis but also etched his name in history as the second man in the Open Era to win his first four Grand Slam finals.
The 21-year-old Spaniard now joins an elite group of players who have achieved the Roland Garros-Wimbledon double in the same year, following in the footsteps of legends like Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Djokovic.
The match was a spectacle of skill and strategy, with Alcaraz's consistent play and precise serving proving too much for Djokovic, who was making a comeback after knee surgery earlier in the season. Although Djokovic showed glimpses of his renowned resilience, particularly in the late stages of the match, Alcaraz remained unfazed, closing out the encounter with flair.
First set
Alcaraz showcased a commanding start to the Wimbledon final, winning the first set 6-2 against Djokovic. Despite a shaky first-serve percentage of 35% in his semi-final against Medvedev, the 21-year-old Spaniard found his rhythm early on, boosting his first-serve accuracy to an impressive 70%. A momentary hiccup with his first double fault was quickly overshadowed by his dominance on serve, securing two set points with confident play. Djokovic managed to challenge on the first, but Alcaraz clinched the set with an unreturnable serve. The intensity of the opening game, lasting nearly fifteen minutes, set the stage for a swift remainder of the set, concluding in just 27 minutes.
Second set
Alcaraz continued his dominant display at Wimbledon, claiming the second set 6-2 against Djokovic. A powerful 108mph second serve, strategically placed in the corner, propelled Alcaraz to a commanding 30-15 lead. Despite Djokovic's efforts to stabilize with a forehand smash, he struggled to penetrate Alcaraz's formidable serve. As the match approached the hour and seventeen-minute mark, Djokovic appeared frustrated and unable to find answers to Alcaraz's aggressive play. With a two-set lead secured, Alcaraz edged closer to securing his second consecutive Wimbledon title, leaving Djokovic facing the daunting task of a comeback from such a deficit against the young Spaniard's relentless form.
Third set
Alcaraz capped off a remarkable Wimbledon 2024 campaign with a thrilling victory over Djokovic
in a tense final set tie-break.
As the match reached its climax, the 21-year-old displayed incredible composure and skill reminiscent of tennis legends like Stefan Edberg, executing crucial shots under pressure. Despite Djokovic's formidable resistance and a spirited comeback attempt in the third set, the Spaniard held his nerve, securing championship points with a blend of tactical acumen and precision. With a well-placed drop shot and Djokovic's final backhand error, Alcaraz claimed his second consecutive Wimbledon title.
This Wimbledon championship match was a highlight of a significant sporting Sunday for British fans, coinciding with the Euro 2024 final between England and Spain later in the evening. The rematch of the 2023 Wimbledon final drew high anticipation, with ticket prices soaring over $10,000 online.
The event also drew a star-studded audience, including British royalty and a constellation of celebrities from around the globe. Princess Kate Middleton, amidst her ongoing battle with cancer, made a poignant public appearance to witness Alcaraz's historic triumph. Tennis legends such as Stan Smith and Chris Evert joined Hollywood luminaries like Tom Cruise and Zendaya in applauding the spectacle.
37-year-old Djokovic was aiming to equal Roger Federer's record of eight Wimbledon titles and avenge his 2023 defeat to Alcaraz. Despite a valiant effort and a remarkable comeback at Wimbledon after undergoing knee surgery in June, Djokovic failed to secure a win in the grand finale.
His quest to become the first player to win eight or more singles titles at two different Grand Slam events will have to wait, as he remains tied with Federer at seven Wimbledon titles and holds ten Australian Open trophies.
Alcaraz's victory further cements his status as one of tennis's brightest stars, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and against the sport's greatest players. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his growing collection of titles signal the dawn of a new era in tennis, with the young Spaniard at the helm.
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