Carlos Alcaraz speaks about his rivalry and friendship with Novak Djokovic

Olympic Silver Medalist and 4-time Grand Slam winner, Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, talks about his off-court friendship with on-court rival, 37-year-old Novak Djokovic.  

The Spaniard, who is known for his improvisational skills on the court, a style of play which is very contrasting to Djokovic's, which is based on precision and efficiency, believes that both bring out the best tennis of each other. In a post-match interview, Carlos stated, "Every time that we face each other, it has been a really good and intense match."

“We have a really good friendship off the court, we talk a lot in the lockers every time that we see each other around. Once we step on the court, there are no friends here on tour, but after that, after the court, I have a really good relationship with a lot of players, and one of them is Novak.” Carlos added.

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Alcaraz - Djokovic  rivalry comes down to the wire at the Flushing Meadows

Earlier this season, Alcaraz defeated Djokovic in the finals of Wimbledon. This match appeared to be the passing of the baton from one era to another. 

However, the story took a turn when Novak toppled Carlos in the finals of the Paris Olympics 2024 to win the Gold medal. Djokovic described his victory in Paris as his "biggest sporting achievement." Alcaraz, on the flip side, felt he let his country down.

With Djokovic and Alcaraz seeded second and third, respectively, there is a possibility of seeing both collide in the finals at the Flushing Meadows a week from now.

“I love playing here. The crowd gives you an energy that probably you don’t feel in other courts.” Alcaraz added.

Also read: WATCH: Carlos Alcaraz heaps praise on Stephen Curry