France Ahead of the Roland Garros semi-finals, coach Juan Carlos Ferrero praised his student Carlos Alcaraz as well as his opponent Novak Djokovic.
"I think they are the best players in the world right now," said Ferrero. "Djokovic has more experience in these types of matches than Alcaraz, but Alcaraz is really hungry to face a big opponent. He has wanted to play this match for a long time. He trains for matches like this, to be present in these moments and try to make history step by step."
Ferrero (right) and Alcaraz during a practice session at Roland Garros on June 7. Photo: ATP
While Alcaraz is eager to face Djokovic for the first time in a Grand Slam, Nole is also determined to defeat the world number one to open the way for a record 23 Grand Slams. Coach Ferrero knows Djokovic is as well prepared as Alcaraz and will fight until the last point. "We all know this match will be difficult," said the former Spaniard. "Alcaraz believes he can beat Djokovic. He has big dreams about what he can do."
Alcaraz and Djokovic have both dropped just one set in the tournament. Alcaraz was in blistering form against Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarterfinals, while Djokovic struggled to beat Karen Khachanov. Both players had two days off before their semifinal clash on June 9.
Juan Carlos Ferrero won the 2003 Roland Garros championship and is a former world number one. He has worked with Alcaraz since 2018 and has helped the Spaniard achieve many great achievements, including becoming the youngest world number one in history and winning a Grand Slam at the 2022 US Open.
"I coached Alcaraz for five years and I know what level he can play at," Ferrero said of his player. "In a way, I'm not too impressed with Alcaraz because I know he can play like this. What impresses me is that he shows his best form against the best. That's the most important thing."
Tomorrow's semi-final is not only like an early final, but also has a big impact on the ATP rankings. Alcaraz will be sure to defend the world number one position after Roland Garros, if he beats Djokovic. The Spaniard will lose the top spot to the Serbian if Nole wins his third Grand Slam on clay.
Vy Anh
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