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via Imago

via Imago

The journey of Carlos Alcaraz at the French Open may have ended sooner than he or his fans had hoped, but the young Spanish tennis sensation made sure to leave a lasting impression. Although he had many memorable moments in the Parisian clay courts, it was his post-match press conference that caught the attention of the tennis world. The questions kept probing for a controversial statement from the Spanish sensation about his semifinal opponent, Novak Djokovic.

Carlos Alcaraz displayed remarkable composure and maturity when confronted by a Spanish reporter seeking controversy.

Alcaraz’s composure in the face of controversy

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The young prodigy was asked, “Did Novak’s long bathroom break after the 2nd set influence you at the beginning of the 3rd set?” The reporter also questioned Alcaraz about how he would react to celebrating a victory over an injured opponent.

The 20-year-old Spaniard displayed impressive maturity and composure, dismissing attempts to create a controversial narrative. He calmly addressed the journalist’s inquiry.

“Many people may want to create controversy and claim that Novak went to the bathroom to stop the game or break rhythm, but no, not in my case… I don’t believe it influenced anything,” the Spaniard replied.

Despite the 2022 US Open champion’s measure answer, the reporter persisted, insisting on a response regarding Djokovic’s celebratory gestures in the face of an injured opponent. Once again, Alcaraz demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship and understanding, refusing to cast blame or criticize his esteemed opponent.

via Reuters

Moving on to the second question, Alcaraz exhibited a level of empathy and understanding that belied his young age. He acknowledged the importance of maintaining intensity when facing an injured opponent. He emphasized the need to close out matches efficiently. Alcaraz acknowledged that in a similar situation, he would probably have acted in the same manner.

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“The truth is, if I were facing someone who was injured or not playing at their best, and I experienced a slump, I would likely do the same. Closing a match is never easy,” the young Spaniard further added.

What happened to Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinal?

Alcaraz suffered severe cramps that led to a downfall of his gameplay. He took a medical timeout. However, he could only manage to win one more game. Novak Djokovic claimed a 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 victory. Despite Alcaraz’s impressive skills and rapid rise in tennis over the past year, it’s important to remember his young age. This match marked Djokovic’s 394th singles appearance at a Major championship, while Alcaraz has played in only 39.

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Now, the eagerly anticipated clash between Novak Djokovic and Casper Ruud is scheduled to unfold later today. The highly anticipated match will commence at 10 am (ET) on Sunday, June 11, at the prestigious Philippe-Chatrier court.

WATCH THIS STORY: Novak Djokovic Not as Charismatic as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, Claims Former French Open Winner