The hallowed grounds of Wimbledon have witnessed countless epic battles, and this year is no exception. From a field of 128 players, only two remain Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. The stage is set for a thrilling sequel, with both players vying for the coveted Wimbledon title. Here are the highlights from Day 12, setting the scene for what promises to be an unforgettable final.
Alcaraz One Step Away
Twelve months ago, Carlos Alcaraz faced Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals, emerging victorious in straight sets. This year, the same world-class duo met at the same stage, and once again, Alcaraz triumphed. With a hot-shot-laden repertoire, the Spaniard outplayed the world No.5, winning 6-7(1), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 on an enthralled Centre Court.
"It's always good to be in a final of a Grand Slam. It's great to be back in a Wimbledon final. I'm really happy about it. I'm going to enjoy the final for sure," said the three-time major winner. "I feel like I've played better matches this year here in Wimbledon. For example, I think I played better against Tommy Paul (in the quarter-finals). I'm coming into a final feeling great with a high level of tennis, a really high level of confidence, and moving well. I have confidence enough to do a really good result on Sunday."
Alcaraz is on the verge of achieving several milestones in the final. If he wins, he will become just the ninth man in the Open Era to retain the Wimbledon title, joining an elite group that includes Djokovic, Rod Laver, John Newcombe, Bjorn Borg, John McEnroe, Boris Becker, Pete Sampras, and Roger Federer. At just 21 years old, Alcaraz is already entering that 'Hall of Fame' kind of company.
The winning moment 🤌
Just listen to @carlosalcaraz and the Centre Court crowd erupt 🔊#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/PczPKRBVa5— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 12, 2024
The recent Roland-Garros winner also has the chance to match the 'Big Three' trio of Djokovic (2021), Federer (2009), and Nadal (2008, 2010) by winning both the French Open and Wimbledon in the same season. But can Carlos handle the heat?
Dialed in Djokovic Denies Musetti
A 37th Grand Slam final at 37 years old can only be Djokovic. The one-of-a-kind athlete has done it again, fending off Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 7-6(2), 6-4 in a high-quality match packed with his laser beam returns, clutch serving at pivotal points, and defensive retrieval skills that needed to be watched again and again to ensure they were possible.
Whatever the challenge – such as right knee surgery 25 days before competing at Wimbledon – Djokovic keeps defying the odds.
"I have said it many times, Wimbledon has been a childhood dream for me to play and to win. It is worth repeating: I was a seven-year-old boy watching the bombs fly over my head and dreaming of being on the most important court in the world, which is here in Wimbledon," reiterated the seven-time champion. "I was constructing Wimbledon trophies out of any material in the room... it has been an incredible journey. I try not to take it for granted every time I find myself on this unique court. I am satisfied and pleased, but I don’t want to stop here. Hopefully, I get my hands on the trophy on Sunday."
Another Modern-Day Classic?
Last summer, Carlos Alcaraz defied Novak Djokovic in a five-set titanic battle. The question on everyone's mind is: will Carlos retain his crown, or will Novak gain revenge and secure a record 25th major? Djokovic, for his part, is well-prepared.
"He is a great example as a young player that has a well-balanced life on and off the court. He has great values in his family, a lot of charisma," said the Serbian. "He is deservedly one of the greatest 21-year-olds we have seen in this sport. We will see a lot of him in the future, no doubt. He is going to win many more Grand Slams, but hopefully not this one! In the future, when I retire in about 15 years! I'm joking... Jokes aside, he has already beaten me here in a thrilling five-setter. I don't expect anything less than that. He is as complete a player as they come. It is going to take my best ability to beat him on Sunday."
The Final Showdown
As Wimbledon 2024 reaches its climax, the final between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic promises to be a clash of titans. Will the young Spaniard solidify his place among the greats, or will the experienced Serbian continue his reign? Tennis fans around the world eagerly await the answer.
Inputs by Agencies
Image Source: X(Wimbledon)
Ⓒ Copyright 2024. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
