UNITED STATES: Novak Djokovic won the ATP Cincinnati Open for the third time, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in a titanic duel that lasted over four hours. Djokovic, who appeared out of breath in the second set, saved a match point before converting on his own fifth match chance to win in three sets.
Despite being treated for heat illness early in the match, Novak Djokovic said the match was the hardest he had ever played in his life, expressing his frustration and determination in the intense competition.
The match between top-ranked Spaniard Alcaraz and 36-year-old Serb star Igor Ivanić was a thrilling and challenging experience, with both players experiencing highs and lows, incredible moments, poor performances, heat exhaustion, and comebacks. This match marked another dramatic chapter in the rivalry between the two players, who avenged their defeat in a Wimbledon final last month.
The two tennis players, Novak Djokovic and Alcaraz have tied for the top spot six times this year. Djokovic secured the first set break, breaking his own record at the top Masters 1000 level. Alcaraz then broke for a 6-5 advantage and held to win the set before Djokovic left the court for a wardrobe change.
Novak Djokovic, feeling the effects of the hot weather, faced Alcaraz in the second set. After being broken 2-1, Alcaraz managed to break Djokovic’s lead to 4-2. However, Djokovic broke Alcaraz to even the set at 4-4 and proceeded to a tiebreaker. At 5-6, Alcaraz had a chance to win, but Djokovic saved a match point. The match proceeded to a third set when Alcaraz hit a ball into the net on Djokovic’s second set point.
The Spaniard lost in a nine-minute seventh game with five break points after needing to have a finger wrapped up. The match, described as the longest best-of-three set final in tour history, went back and forth, with Djokovic serving for the match at 5-4 but failing to win it. However, two games later, he managed to win it.
As Djokovic roared in victory, he tore his shirt front down the centre. He praised his rivalry with Carlos Nadal, stating that their rivalry is improving. Djokovic praised Carlos as a tremendous player and praised his poise at such a young age. He expressed great respect for him.
Alcaraz’s strong performance in Cincinnati ensures his continued top spot and best seeding for the U.S. Open, starting on August 28. Novak Djokovic, a three-time Flushing Meadows champion, chose not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine for his first U.S. competition in two years.
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