Carlos Alcaraz is fired up for today’s Wimbledon final showdown against defending champion Novak Djokovic.
Speaking after he eased himself into his first final with a 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 flattening of Daniil Medvedev on Friday night, the world number one told the tournament’s official website that he would try and stay calm against Djokovic, adding that he learned a great deal from his Roland Garros experience with the vastly experienced seven-time champion and world number 2, describing the Serbian as a beast.
“For Novak, it’s just one more moment, but for me, it will be the best moment of my life. Playing in a Wimbledon final is something I’ve dreamed of, even better against Novak. It will be really emotional for me, but I’ll try to stay calm, said the Spaniard, who has won his last 11 matches on grass.
He continued: “The semi-final today was one of my best matches on grass—probably one of my best on any surface on Tour. Grass could become my best surface. I always liked it, but more this year.
“It’s extra motivation to win the final against Novak, a legend in our sport. It would be amazing for me—super special. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best.
“I grew up watching him. I admire him the most. He has beaten all the big guys, and as I’ve said many times, he has no weakness; he is a really complete player. He’s amazing. He does nothing wrong on the court. Physically and mentally, he’s a beast.
“I will try to feel less nervous than I did there and try to enjoy the moment. In France, I didn’t enjoy it at all in the first set. I’ll prepare a little bit differently. I hope not to get cramps during this final. I will be better.
“I have a psychologist I’ve worked with since the beginning of 2020. She’s helped me a lot. I talk with her about preparing for important moments. This time, physically, I’ll do the same [as at Roland-Garros], but mentally, I will do some mental exercise to stay calm so I’m not nervous, and try to forget I’m going to play a final against Novak.”
Djokovic earlier on Friday defeated Jannik Sinner 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) to book a place in the final and stay on course for a fifth Championships men’s singles title in a row.
In his post-match reactions, cited by the official website of the tournament, Djokovic said he was playing the best tennis of his life and doesn’t see age as a hindrance.
“I’d like to believe I’m playing the best tennis of my life. I try not to look at age as a factor or a hindrance. Thirty-six is the new 26,” said Djokovic, who could win his fifth Wimbledon in a row and an eighth title overall if he emerges victorious in the final on Sunday.
Djokovic, who recently won his third French Open title, is seeking his eighth Wimbledon title, having achieved the feat in 2011, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022.
