Carlos Alcaraz’s typically composed demeanor took a dramatic turn when he exploded in frustration. The incident has led to comparisons with Novak Djokovic, which has frustrated many tennis fans. While Alcaraz’s on-court outburst was a stark departure from his usual temper, the media’s attempt to draw parallels with Djokovic has only added to the debate, leaving fans divided over the comparisons.

Alcaraz had a fit of rage during his Cincinnati Open match against Gael Monfils. He struggled for a point and smashed his racket on the court after he was unable to return a shot. The four-time Grand Slam champion tried hard, but he could not beat Monfils, losing 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4.

Apparently, after the frustrated act, Marca shared a picture of Alcaraz and Djokovic smashing racquets. The caption reads, “Alcaraz lost his temper and smashed his racket in his Cincinnati loss to Monfils. He is not the first genius whose nerves have played a trick on him. The list includes tennis players like Djokovic, Federer, Seran, McEnroe, Zverev...” 

Following Alcaraz’s irate outburst during his match against Monfils, the Spanish media came under fire for bringing up Novak Djokovic. Critics contend that it is unnecessary and distracting to compare Alcaraz’s emotional outburst with Djokovic’s well-documented on-court emotions.

Tennis fans criticize Spanish media for bringing Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic together 

The media’s attempt to link Djokovic with Alcaraz’s moment of frustration has only stirred controversy, with fans and commentators questioning the relevance and fairness of such parallels. A fan shared a joke in which he highlighted that it was all about “Spanish Media and Spanish Tennis fans:“ shouting out “Novak, Novak,” while working eating, and even sleeping.

On the other hand, another one wrote, “Why is this a big deal? Other than Nadal fans clutching their pearls, literally no one cares.“ However, for the Spanish tennis player, it is a big deal, as he even apologizes for his own incorrect attitude. Taking to X just a day later, the 21-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz expressed regret over his actions during the match against Gael Monfils.

He acknowledged that his behavior, characterized by the outburst of smashing his racket, was not appropriate. Alcaraz wrote, “I am human, I had a lot of nerves inside and sometimes it is very difficult to control yourself when your heart rate is so high. I will work so that it does not happen again.” 

However, a fan mentioned, “You just had to bring Djokovic in? Anyways it’s Carlos so I no go curse you.“ In the past few years, their rivalry has become one of the most prominent clashes for the fans. Not only in Grand Slam finals, but at the same time this year at the Olympics, both of them created history when a 37-year-old tennis legend went against a 21-year-old in an exciting final clash.

Subsequently, another fan emphasized how, “Aww now you take examples of other tennis players to defend Alcaraz. Meanwhile, you attacked Djokovic for his racket breaks.” Djokovic has smashed many rackets on-court. In the 2023 Wimbledon final, he broke his racket on the net post after losing a prominent point. Media houses hounded that moment, which was followed by a fine for the Serb.

Lastly, a fan highlighted, “Okay, that’s true… but I don’t see them being so understanding and argumentative when it’s Djokovic.” The majority of supporters, however, criticized the apparent forbearance towards the 21-year-old, claiming that Djokovic had already been called unsportsmanlike for comparable outbursts of rage.

Critics drew attention to the seeming double standard, pointing out that while Alcaraz’s recent outburst appeared to be received with greater tolerance, Djokovic experienced a major reaction to his on-court outbursts. The Spaniard was apologetic after his smash, which could factor into the different approach from the media. What do you believe?