Young Carlos Alcaraz and veteran Novak Djokovic are the top two players in men’s tennis right now. As the tennis world gears up for the 2023 French Open, all eyes are on the duo to light up the Stade Roland Garros. However, over the last 12 months, their rivalry has been rather dormant. The two haven’t met each other even once during this period. Right now, both Alcaraz and Djokovic are hoping to clinch the Italian Open title in Rome before their attentions turn towards Paris.

In a press conference, Djokovic reflected on his rivalry with Alcaraz. According to the 22-time Grand Slam winner, the fact that Alcaraz and he are featuring together in their first tournament this year is ‘romantic’.

Carlos Alcaraz is ‘the player to beat’ on clay, claims Novak Djokovic

Rafael Nadal’s absence from the 2023 clay court season so far has been hard to swallow for tennis fans. However, this has presented an opportunity for the likes of Djokovic and Alcaraz to showcase their abilities on clay. Without any doubt, Alcaraz has taken full advantage of the opportunity.

During the press conference, Djokovic remarked on Alcaraz’s exceptional recent form. “He’s been playing some very impressive tennis, a great level. He’s the player to beat on this surface, no doubt”. Djokovic went on to say, “Of course, it depends if Nadal is going to play in the French Open or not. But Alcaraz is one of the top favorites without any dilemma. He’s been playing fantastic tennis.”

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The interviewer also referred to Alcaraz and Djokovic’s rivalry as a “long distance rivalry”. To this, Djokovic had a cheeky response as he said, “Sounds romantic”.

Read More: Novak Djokovic Practices With Carlos Alcaraz

What lies in store for the duo in the Italian Open?

How are things shaping up for Alcaraz and Djokovic in Rome?

Djokovic is the defending Italian Open champion and World No. 1 in the ATP Tour rankings. However, his lead at the top of the ATP Tour rankings will mean nothing come Saturday. By simply appearing for his opening match of the tournament, Alcaraz will leapfrog Djokovic and become World No. 1.

For Djokovic, maintaining consistency in terms of form has been a problem in 2023 so far. The Serb withdrew from three tournaments and exited the Monte Carlo Masters in the third round, following a loss against Federer fanboy Lorenzo Musetti. However, Alcaraz will be looking forward to the 2023 Italian Open as the most ideal preparation for the Stade Roland Garros showpiece, which will start later this month.

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