Alcaraz Outshines Djokovic to Storm Into US Open Final
Carlos Alcaraz has once again shown why he is considered the future of tennis. In the U.S. Open semifinal, the 22-year-old Spaniard defeated Novak Djokovic in straight sets — 6-4, 7-6, 6-2 — and secured his spot in the final at Flushing Meadows. The match lasted just over two and a half hours, and although the scoreline looks fairly comfortable, it was anything but easy.
Djokovic, at 38 years old, threw everything he could at Alcaraz. He tried drop shots, volleys, defensive stretches, and even moments of brilliance that had the 23,000 fans on their feet. But no matter how hard he pushed, the Serbian great could not sustain the level needed to match the relentless pace and energy of his much younger opponent. The difference in physicality and endurance was plain for all to see.
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Alcaraz, on the other hand, showed just how much he has matured. A few years ago, he often admitted that his matches felt like “rollercoasters,” with highs of incredible shotmaking and lows of unnecessary mistakes. This time, there were no dips. He stayed composed, played smart, and managed his serve beautifully. Not only has he reached three consecutive Grand Slam finals this year, but he has also advanced through this U.S. Open without dropping a single set — a rare feat in the history of the tournament.
For Djokovic, even reaching this stage was a testament to his greatness. Having not played since Wimbledon, his run to a fourth Slam semifinal in 2025 was remarkable. Still, the toll of playing best-of-five matches at this stage in his career was obvious. Each changeover seemed to bring more physical adjustments, and during the match he even required treatment for his neck. Despite the chants of “Nole, Nole!” echoing across Arthur Ashe Stadium, the gap between him and Alcaraz grew wider with each set.
The crowd, however, showed him a deep appreciation rarely seen in New York earlier in his career. Every defensive point, every extended rally, was met with roars. When the final ball was struck and Djokovic left the court making heart signs with his hands, he was met with a standing ovation — a reminder of the immense respect he has earned over time.
For Alcaraz, the victory means another shot at glory. Already a five-time Grand Slam champion, he is seeking his sixth title and his second at the U.S. Open. He will face either Jannik Sinner or Félix Auger-Aliassime in the final. At just 22 years old, he has now reached seven Grand Slam finals, joining legends like Björn Borg and Rafael Nadal as one of the youngest players to do so in the Open Era.
As he put it himself after the match: “It feels amazing. It means a lot to me. I served well, and that was really important today.” Calm, confident, and in top form — Carlos Alcaraz is proving not just that he belongs, but that this era of tennis might be his for the taking.
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