Novak Djokovic admitted the Cincinnati Masters final game against Carlos Alcaraz is one of the most exciting, toughest mentally, emotionally, physically demanding matches that he has ever played in his glorious career. It was a roller-coaster of the match as the pendulum swung from one player to the other but it was the Serbian who had the final laugh after a gruelling contest of three hours and 50 minutes.
The veteran also compared the match to the Australian Open 2012 final against Rafael Nadal, which went the distance in a five-set marathon.
Meanwhile, this is Djokovic’s 39th ATP 1000 Masters title, and also his 95th ATP title on the tour, which is the third most for any player.
Djokovic came back from a set and a break down to win 5-7, 7-6 (9/7), 7-6 (7/4). In fact, the Serbian also saved a Match point in the second set tiebreaker to go all the way.
“It’s a crazy match that we’ve been through today. Roller coaster of a match,” Djokovic said in his post-match press conference. “I don’t think I’ve played too many matches like this in my life.
“Maybe I can compare it to [against] Nadal at the 2012 Australian Open that went the distance. Obviously three sets today, but almost four hours. One of the most exciting and toughest mentally, emotionally, physically matches that I’ve ever had in my career.”
Djokovic showered praise on Carlos Alcaraz, who continues to impress despite being only 20-years-old. The veteran admitted each point against the Spaniard is a battle in itself.
“You just have to put your hats down to a guy like that, who plays so maturely, handles the pressure so well for a 20-year-old,” Djokovic said. “We cannot forget how young he is. That’s something that is so impressive about him. The feeling that I have on the court reminds me a little bit when I was facing Nadal when we were at our prime of our careers. Each point is a hustle. Each point is a battle.
“Amazing to be able to experience that with him on the court. It just keeps getting better for the fans. As for us, I don’t know if we are enjoying it so much. It’s definitely a challenge that we both need to embrace and accept because that’s what’s required from both of us in order to win big titles.”
Djokovic will look to continue the good form in the upcoming US Open, all set to begin on August 28.
