Carlos Alcaraz Admits Not Feeling His ‘Best Level’ During Novak Djokovic Clash

Taking on yet another major final this season, Carlos Alcaraz proved he’s got what it takes! The 22-year-old Spaniard faced Novak Djokovic in the US Open semifinals on Friday. Having not dropped a set all tournament, Alcaraz seemed favored, but Djokovic’s daunting 5-3 head-to-head record lingered. Still, the young star showed he’s no match for his mastery, powering through to victory! However, the battle wasn’t smooth—Alcaraz made errors and nearly dropped the second set in a tense tiebreak. But he kept his nerve and dominated the court.

In an emotion-filled on-court interview, he expressed his elation and stated, “It’s a great feeling. Once again the final here at US Open… It feels amazing. It means a lot to me.” But, the feeling of happiness came with a confession.

The Spaniard added, “It wasn’t the best level of the tournament for me, but I just kept a good level since the beginning to the last point. I served pretty well. Today I think it was really, really important. Being there. Trying to play a really physical match. I think I did it. In general, I played really good tennis. Just really happy to play my 2nd final here at US Open.” However, he has much to celebrate. After all, the number two seed secured his win in three sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium, 6-4, 7-6, 6-2, reaching his seventh Grand Slam final!

With this win, Alcaraz tightens his ATP head-to-head with Djokovic to 4-5 after nine gripping meetings. Djokovic had the upper hand in their recent clashes, including the 2025 Australian Open quarters and 2024 Paris Olympics final. This result adds to Alcaraz’s strong Grand Slam record of 83-13, showcasing his rising dominance.

Alcaraz shines particularly at the US Open, boasting an impressive 23-3 record, and this marks his second final on these courts. He won this tournament in 2022 and has a 5-1 record in Grand Slam finals overall. Now targeting his sixth major, he prepares to face either Jannik Sinner or Felix Auger-Aliassime, promising more thrilling tennis ahead.