Spain’s tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz, currently ranked number two in the ATP, added another notable win by defeating Novak Djokovic in straight sets: 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. The exhibition match in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, stretched nearly two hours and crowned Alcaraz as the top player in the world in that event, highlighting his readiness to compete at the highest level on hard courts.
The action unfolded on the Kingdom Arena stage, where Alcaraz grabbed an early advantage by breaking Djokovic for a 2-0 lead. Djokovic responded with precision, using deep returns to seize momentum on his second serve and flip the score to 3-2. The Serbian continued to pressure Alcaraz, converting a 0-30 situation in the sixth game and overcoming a challenging serve to claim the first set 6-4 after breaking serve late in the game. The set demonstrated Djokovic’s resilience and tactical depth as he closed out the opener with a decisive advantage.
As the second set began, Alcaraz found his footing more swiftly, earning a break of serve at the first available opportunity and maintaining the upper hand through the subsequent games. He weathered a single break point and kept his competitive pace, equipping himself with the tempo required to contest every rally against the seasoned rival. The Spaniard’s aggression and court coverage paid dividends, allowing him to level the match at one set apiece and shift the momentum in his direction.
In the decisive third set, Djokovic briefly asserted control, gaining a small lead at 2-1 before Alcaraz responded with a sustained push that tested Djokovic’s defenses. The match remained tightly contested through the middle stages, with both players delivering high-quality shotmaking and quick transitions from defense to offense. Alcaraz ultimately found a crucial breakthrough at a pivotal moment, extending his advantage to a late lead that Djokovic could not fully overturn, sealing a memorable victory for the young Spaniard.
First edition of the eponymous Cup
Following the win, Alcaraz dressed in a crisp white outfit and celebrated on court, bringing joy to the fans gathered in Riyadh. The victory set the stage for a special event the next day, the inaugural Carlos Alcaraz Cup, a celebration organized by the Autonomous Community and the Regional Tennis Federation. The event was designed to honor the rising star from El Palmar and to bring together the local community on a day that mixed sports with culture and family activities.
Organizers described the Cup as a joyful occasion intended to share love and gratitude from the country with its homegrown champion. The program featured music, dance, performances, and, of course, tennis as the central thread, turning the event into a festive blend of sport and celebration that resonated with fans across the region.
Alcaraz, who captured six titles during the 2023 season, took part in the Murcia Region event as a rare home appearance since reaching the pinnacle on the world stage. The 2023 Wimbledon champion used the exhibition to engage with younger fans, particularly children, underscoring his commitment to encouraging the next generation of players even amid a demanding schedule.