Alcaraz admits he is not on the same level as Djokovic

World number two Carlos Alcaraz is convinced by Novak Djokovic, after losing to his senior 3-6, 2-6 in the ATP Finals semi-finals on November 18.

"He played at the same level the whole match, the quality of his shots was unbelievable," Alcaraz said of Djokovic after the match at Pala Alpitour on November 18. "His balls were very deep and I couldn't create an advantage. Djokovic showed again why he is the best player in the world."

Alcaraz (right) congratulates Djokovic after the ATP Finals semi-final on November 18 in Turin, Italy. Photo: AP

For the first time in five meetings, Djokovic and Alcaraz finished in the minimum number of sets. On a day when Nole played near-perfect tennis, Alcaraz won just five games and gave up after 88 minutes. The 20-year-old's maiden ATP Finals appearance ended in the semi-finals, while his senior reached the final against Jannik Sinner.

"I feel like I'm not at his level on indoor courts," Alcaraz admitted. "I played good matches against him at Wimbledon, Cincinnati and Roland Garros. On outdoor courts, I feel like I can match his tennis. Of course, Novak has more experience on these courts than me."

In 2023, Alcaraz beat Djokovic in the Wimbledon final, but lost in the Roland Garros semi-finals, the Cincinnati Masters final and the ATP Finals semi-finals. In terms of head-to-head record, Djokovic leads his junior 3-2.

Nole's ability to return serves also impressed Alcaraz. In the ATP Finals semi-final, Alcaraz had 10 aces and had an 84% first-ball landing rate, but only won 62% of his first-ball points. On second-ball, the Spaniard won only three of his nine points. Djokovic won 81% of his first-ball points and 56% of his second-ball points.

"Playing against Novak is not just about serving, because he returns serve so well," Alcaraz praised Nole. "It's unbelievable. He pushes you to the limit on every shot. I played well on some points, but the reality is that I would hit a good point and then make three or four mistakes in the next point. Playing against Novak, you can't win if you play like that."

Despite not being able to finish the year as number one as in 2022, Alcaraz still had a successful season. After missing the Australian Open earlier in the year due to injury, the Spaniard still won 65 matches and won six titles. Alcaraz will put those achievements aside for now and focus on analyzing the loss to Djokovic when he has a rest in the coming time.

"This match will help me when I go into the break between two seasons," Alcaraz said. "I will review it to see my weaknesses, improve and become a better player. I will forget all the previous matches with Novak, and only focus on this defeat. Because I know I have a lot to do if I want to reach his level."

Vy Anh

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