Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic at test in Riyadh
Shortly before the start of the new season , Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz have already played the first test against each other. Both players tested their form at an exhibition match in Saudi Arabia before the opener in Australia. Alcaraz won 4:6, 6:4, 6:4.
by Daniel Hofmann
last edit:
Dec 27, 2023, 08:03 pm
It is not new that the stars of the tennis scene spend their preparation in warm regions of the world shortly before the start of the season. The fact that the trip to Saudi Arabia is sweetened with a small entry bonus for a show match will no longer be news to those familiar with the scene. Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz followed this call and held the final exchange of blows of the year in Riyadh.
At the “Riyadh Season Tennis Cup” both players used the full distance to test their form before the Australia Open. Even though the world number two from Spain got into the game better, the Serb secured the first set 6:4. Carlos Alcaraz also got off to a better start in the second set and was now able to convert this into something countable. The 6:4 in the second round gave the enthusiastic fans in the hall a deciding set.
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic delight the fans
This also went to the reigning Wimbledon champion 6:4. Alcaraz used the break to make it 5:4 to win after 1:53 hours of play. The two currently best players in the ATP rankings offered the audience a high-level exhibition match with numerous entertaining rallies. However, it is doubtful that this comparison is a concrete prediction for the outcome of the upcoming Australian Open.
In 2023, both players met in a total of four duels. The Spaniard's only win against Novak Djokovic came in the Wimbledon final, which many fans will certainly call one of the most exciting and best duels of the year. Even in 2024, meetings between the two players should not be too rare.
#VIDEO#