Novak Djokovic is in the final of the French Open for the seventh time. The Serb clearly won the semifinals against Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who struggled with cramps from the third set.
The 36-year-old Serb defeated the badly injured Spaniard 6:3, 5:7, 6:1, 6:1 on Friday (09.06.23) and can hope for the third title at the clay court classic in Paris.
Alcaraz had to deal with cramps after a quick step at the beginning of the third set and then seemed completely inhibited. The world number one was treated several times by a physiotherapist, but he was unable to sprint for the rest of the game. After the 1-0 in the third set, the 20-year-old only won one game to make it 5-1 in the fourth round.
Plagued by cramps: Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals against Novak Djokovic.
“It was bad luck for Carlos. The last thing you want is cramps at a time like this. I feel for him. He will win the tournament several times, I’m very sure of that.” said Djokovic afterwards.
Powerful match by Djokovic
At the beginning of the game, Alcaraz was under pressure and nervous. After every point gained, the Spaniard cheered himself on and encouraged himself. But with his strong returns, Djokovic immediately put his opponent under pressure and dominated the initial phase.
When the score was 3: 4 in the second set, Djokovic had his right forearm, which was obviously painful, treated for a long time. But after Alcaraz secured the second set, the Spaniard was shocked a little later – and then quickly eliminated.
Alcaraz lost to Djokovic in the second duel for the first time in his career and now has to fear that the Serb will replace him as number one in the world if he triumphs in the final on Sunday.
Djokovic can set a Grand Slam record
World number three Djokovic only needs this victory for his 23rd triumph in a Grand Slam tournament, with which he would secure the sole record ahead of Rafael Nadal.
For the second oldest finalist in the history of the French Open, it is already the 34th final in a Grand Slam. In the final of the clay court classic, Djokovic meets Alexander Zverev or the Norwegian Casper Ruud.