The US Open is just around the corner, and the buzz is electric. Fans are getting a delightful treat with exhibition matches that pit current stars against legends of the game. Wednesday’s match was a prime example, featuring a thrilling showdown between the youthful energy of Carlos Alcaraz and the legendary Andre Agassi on one side, against the powerhouse duo of Novak Djokovic and John McEnroe. The crowd was treated to an exhilarating display of skill, wit, and a bit of nostalgia, as these tennis greats showcased their talents in a match that was as entertaining as it was competitive. 

Alcaraz and Agassi trailed behind their opponents quite extensively. But Agassi’s never-give-up attitude was witnessed even in his latest match as he was seen motivating his young teammate to play with more determination. With the duo trailing 5-9, Agassi was seen running from one end to the other as he looked determined to not give away even a single point.

He also motivated Alcaraz to play vehemently against Djokovic. He was heard saying “Hit it man hit it!” as the duo finally reduced the difference and reached 6-9. This competitive trait continued throughout the match. Agassi and Alcaraz went on to win two more points in quick succession. But the destiny seemed to be in McEnroe and Nole’s favor who baffled their opponents 10-8 in the match. The Spaniard, meanwhile, has shared some close bond with Agassi in the past.

Speaking after his third-round win at the Indian Well Masters, the 21-year-old pointed to the help he received from Agassi. Talking to Tennis Channel, Alcaraz said, “I asked him for a few tips for a few things, on how he was doing things in his career, how he dealt with the pressure or to stay at the high rankings with high intensity during almost his career. He told me you have to give your 100% every day.” But while the duo lost their match on Wednesday, the Spanish sensation must be looking forward to continue hunting more slams this season. 

Carlos Alcaraz determined to outshine opponents at the US Open

The 4-time Grand Slam champion had a surprising beginning to the American hard court swing. He lost to Gael Monfils in his opening match itself, and sent shockwaves across the tennis community. However, Alcaraz seems to have learned a lot from the match and is ready to perform at his full strength at the US Open. 

Speaking after his match at Cincinnati, Alcaraz said, “I couldn’t play. Honestly, I’d been practicing really well. I don’t know how I felt like this. I couldn’t control myself.” However, he did not want the heartbreak to emerge as a roadblock ahead of him. “It’s really difficult to find some good stuff from this match. so, I want to forget it and try to move on. I’ll go to New York and try to practice well, get used to those courts.”

As the star player gears up for his campaign at Flushing Meadows, it would be interesting to see if he can amalgamate Agassi’s advice and his brilliance to win the slam yet again.