FRANCE: Spanish player Carlos Alcaraz defeated the fifth-seeded Greek with scores of 6-2, 6-1, and 7-6 (7-5). Serbia’s Djokovic escaped a scare from Karen Khachanov in the quarterfinals and needed to win by 4-6, 7-6 (7-0), 6-2, 6-4. The third seed may make history by becoming the first guy to take home all four major titles at least three times.
Djokovic must overcome his most difficult test yet when he plays US Open winner Carlos Alcaraz in the round of 16 on Friday. Alcaraz remarked that this match is what everyone wants to watch, and it will be a good one to play. He is excited to see Djokovic, who is among the greatest in the world.
Djokovic and Alcaraz have long been regarded as co-favourites to succeed the 14-time winner Rafael Nadal when he is sidelined by injury, and their performance thus far in this event clearly suggests that this is still the case.
The French Open draw was announced a week ago, and Djokovic and Alcaraz were drawn in the same half. Djokovic and Alcaraz’s strong play has secured a thrilling semifinal in Paris.
This season’s top men’s tour players include Djokovic, who has triumphed in five of the last seven major tournaments in which he has competed, and Alcaraz, who has triumphed in five of the last seven major tournaments in which he has competed.
Alcaraz and Tsitsipas haven’t had many head-to-head fights or encounters in the largest competitions. With a victory against a competitor who advanced to the 2021 Roland Garros final, Alcaraz set up their first clash at a major.
Alcaraz won the opening set in 34 minutes by displaying his erratic skill, including amazing returns off both flanks and exquisite drop shots. Tsitsipas was perplexed by the Spaniard when he broke for a 2-1 lead in the first set.
Tsitsipas and Alcaraz had a 3-0 lead in the third set, but Alcaraz took a sixth match point to advance to the semi-final.
Tsitsipas saved two match opportunities to hold for 5-3 and then secured her first break points to put the set back on service at 5-5. Tsitsipas admitted that she felt “completely off” after the game and hopes it never happens again.
Djokovic said he played the perfect tiebreak and improved his game from there. It was a fierce battle in the Grand Slam quarterfinals, but he was pleased to get through it.
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