In the world of professional tennis, where great players make history, there’s a new story unfolding at the US Open in 2023. Carlos Alcaraz cleared his Round 3 obstacle with the final scoreline of 6-2, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3. But, the young Spanish bazooka, aged 20, has said something very bold: he wants to do what no one has done since Roger Federer, which is to win the US Open two times in a row.
As Novak Djokovic gears up for his own Round of 16 showdown, the young Spaniard’s ambition is sounding a warning bell for the Serbian who is keen on eyeing his 4th US Open title.
Carlos Alcaraz’s ambitious US Open goal and a subtle warning to Novak Djokovic
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After defeating Evans in a strong performance, Alcaraz revealed his big dream: “I know that no other man defended the title here since Roger. I would love to be part of the tournament history with Roger.” These words reveal how Carlos Alcaraz is very determined to do what Roger Federer did – win the US Open two times in a row. In fact, Roger won it five times in a row.
Carlos Alcaraz wants to become the first man to defend US Open title since Roger Federer:
“I know that no other man defended the title here since Roger. I would love to be part of the tournament history with Roger.”
Chasing a legend.
pic.twitter.com/tQJXqKJzsP— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 2, 2023
What Alcaraz said, even though it’s inspiring and ambitious, also tells Novak Djokovic, who wants to win his 24th Grand Slam, that he’s a strong competitor. Djokovic, a three time US Open champion, is determined to clinch his fourth title in this year’s tournament. Certainly, Alcaraz’s big goal will depend on how he tackles the imposing obstacle that is Djokovic.
Roger Federer and his glorious US Open streak
In the midst of the Carlos Alcaraz-Novak Djokovic showdown brewing at the US Open 2023, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the legendary Roger Federer’s remarkable history at this prestigious tournament. Although Federer retired from professional tennis in 2022, his five consecutive US Open victories from 2004 to 2008 still shine brightly in the sport’s history.
It all started in 2004 when Federer had a stunning victory over Lleyton Hewitt, winning three sets to zero, including a perfect 6-0 in the first and third sets. Federer said it was a dream start to the tournament.
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The following year, in 2005, Federer defended his US Open title by defeating home-country favorite Andre Agassi in a thrilling match that ended 6-3, 2-6, 7-6, 6-1. This win made Federer the first man in the Open era to successfully defend both the Wimbledon and US Open titles in the same year. In 2006, Federer won his third consecutive US Open title by defeating Andy Roddick in a hard-fought match. This made him the first player ever to win Wimbledon and the US Open three times in a row.
The streak continued in 2007 when Federer faced Novak Djokovic in the final, winning with scores of 7-6, 7-6, 6-4. Federer’s remarkable victory not only earned him the title but also a record-breaking $2.4 million in prize money, making him the first man since Bill Tilden (1920-25) to secure four consecutive US Open titles. In 2008, Federer’s reign reached its peak when he beat Andy Murray in a straight-set victory.
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Federer’s remarkable legacy at the US Open remains etched in tennis history, showcasing his unrivaled skill, resilience, and dominance on the court. While the tennis world eagerly awaits the next generation’s ascent, we can’t help but reminisce about the unparalleled reign of Roger Federer.