Novak Djokovic reflects on Australian Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz
Novak Djokovic expressed feelings of “bitterness” after losing his first Australian Open final, marking the end of his perfect 10-0 record in championship matches at Melbourne Park, reports BritPanorama.
The 38-year-old Serbian succumbed to Carlos Alcaraz with a score of 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5, diminishing his hopes of securing a historic 25th Grand Slam title despite a strong start to the match.
In his post-match press conference, Djokovic described his opening set as one of his best in recent years, heightening the disappointment of his later downturn. “Of course, after a loss, it’s a bitter feeling, but nevertheless, I have to be, yeah, content with this result,” he remarked.
While acknowledging his own frustrations, the four-time champion commended Alcaraz, now the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam. “He makes you play your best tennis to beat him… he deserved to win,” Djokovic admitted, praising Alcaraz’s performance throughout the match.
Djokovic noted a key moment during the fourth set at 4-4, where he missed a critical forehand on break point, which may have shifted the match’s momentum. “My forehand broke down in important moments,” he said, highlighting how pivotal shots can alter the course of a game. He also declined to comment on any physical issues he faced during the match, stating, “I never like to talk about things that… I’m looking for excuses and taking away the credit of the winner.”
Entering the final, Djokovic had an advantageous route after benefiting from a walkover and a mid-match retirement in earlier rounds. Despite lifting his game to outlast defending champion Jannik Sinner in a challenging five-set semi-final, his energy levels ultimately fell short against Alcaraz.
As Djokovic turns his focus back home to his family, he prepares for a respite from competition. “For me, the best way to deal with anything after I finish competition is to be with my family… that’s only thing I’m thinking about right now is just go back to hug my close ones,” he concluded.
While Djokovic’s disappointment was palpable, joy resonated for Alcaraz, who has now set a new benchmark as the youngest player to achieve the career Grand Slam since Don Budge’s record in 1938. A reminder that even within the highs and lows of sport, history continues to unfold in compelling fashion.
