As a grand slam promises, fast-paced action is being delivered to the viewers. But one of the most anticipated match-ups of this year will take place on 9th June. Novak Djokovic will face Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinal at the French Open. While many Spanish fans are hoping Alcaraz will be the victor, Alex Corretja, former number 2, believes that Carlitos has a tough match ahead.
Djokovic, on his streak to become the ATP player with the most slams, has to face Alcaraz before he gets the chance. As he prepares for his clash, Djokovic told reporters that Alcaraz reminds him of Rafael Nadal, his old rival. As he drew parallels between the two Spaniards, he heavily praised Alcaraz for his great performances.
Carlos Alcaraz will suffer against Novak Djokovic
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One of the most anticipated clashes of the Roland Garros has already arrived. The world number 1 and 2 will battle it out in Court Philippe Chatrier for a chance at grand slam glory. As every tennis fan in Spain will be rooting for the world number 1, Corretja is not betting his money on Alcaraz at the moment.
He mentioned that tennis followers are excited for Alcaraz. The people already expect him to be the winner in the big clash against the Djoker. “Everybody is so pumped for Carlitos to do well here at Roland-Garros,” Corretja said.
He further added, “They are expecting that big clash against Djokovic.” While Corretja believes he can do well, there is no guarantee that he will be the winner of the match. He talked about how he will have to suffer because beating Djokovic in best-of-five sets is something players seldom achieve.
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“I’m sure it’s not going to be easy, but everyone is confident with Alcaraz back home; that he can do well and play well, being ready, but he’s going to suffer, because it’s not easy to beat Djokovic in best of five.“
His words of advice for Alcaraz were that patience would be his best weapon. Carlitos doesn’t need to change his technique. Rather, he should focus on the ball that’s coming and return it to the best of his abilities. “He needs to be patient and wait for his chance. He needs to play his game.” Corretja said. The former number 2 added that “He doesn’t need to change anything specific. He will need to be there knowing that Novak has plenty of experience of best of fives, that he’s going to play deep and long rallies.”
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Although Corretja believes that Alcaraz has a tough time ahead, his past victory over Djokovic can be repeated once more. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
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