Ahead of Their Potential US Open Clash, 20-Year-Old Carlos Alcaraz Starts Mind Games With Novak Djokovic as He Makes ‘Crazy’ Statement

This year’s Wimbledon Championships produced one of the greatest finals in recent years. Spanish teen sensation, Carlos Alcaraz, triumphed over the 23-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic to win his maiden title at SW19. It was a battle of grit and determination as the 20-year-old five-set battle in four hours and 43 minutes. Ahead of the US Open, Alcaraz has already begun the mind-game battle.

The Spaniard is the defending US Open champion. Last year, he defeated Casper Ruud of Norway to win the title. On the other hand, Djokovic was missing from the tournament after being denied entry into the United States on account of his Covid-19 vaccination status. However, he is set to play this year and the two could potentially square up once again in the title-deciding match.

What did Carlos Alcaraz say about Novak Djokovic?

The World Number 1 is in Cincinnati where he’s playing at the Western and Southern Open. During the pre-tournament interview, he went on to talk about facing Djokovic on the big stage.

Alcaraz felt that the Serb is his main opponent at the upcoming US Open. The statement is well justified, given that the two are in good form. Further, the Spaniard added, “I like those battles. I like to know I can lose & I can recover it at the same time. You have to enjoy when the battle is against a legend like Novak. I feel I’m the main opponent for him. For me, it’s something crazy. I’m trying to enjoy it.”

Before the US Open, the two might potentially square up once again after the epic Wimbledon finals match. Alcaraz and Djokovic are playing at the ongoing ATP 1000 tournament in Cincinnati. While the Spaniard is the top seed, Djokovic is seeded second in the tournament, setting up a potential summit clash. Further, as Alcaraz aims to carry his momentum going into the US Open, he channeled his rival in Cincinnati.

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Alcaraz imitates Djokovic at Cincinnati Masters

Recently, the tournament’s official Instagram handle shared a picture of Alcaraz during a practice session. The 20-year-old opted to train shirtless as temperatures soared in Cincinnati. Alcaraz has received a bye in the opening round and will directly play in the round-of-32.

However, Alcaraz wasn’t the first player to ditch his T-shirt. Earlier, the former World Number 1, Djokovic showed off his physique in a shirtless training image that went viral on social media.

As the two sweat it out, who do you think will come out on top in the hard-court season? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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