Carlos Alcaraz dominated seven-time champion Novak Djokovic in straight sets on Sunday to retain his Wimbledon title, signaling the dawn of a new era in men's tennis. The Spanish third seed delivered a blend of formidable power and refined skill to secure a 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) victory, marking his fourth Grand Slam win in his early career. Alcaraz now matches the Open Era record for most Grand Slams won before the age of 21, tying with Boris Becker, Bjorn Borg, and Mats Wilander. Additionally, he is only the sixth man to consecutively win both the French Open and Wimbledon. Djokovic, aged 37 and recovering from recent knee surgery, was vying for his 25th Grand Slam, which would have set a new record in both men's and women's tennis. However, under the bright Centre Court, Djokovic found no response to Alcaraz's aggressive play and signature drop shots.
"Honestly, it's a dream come true to win this trophy," the Spaniard said. "When I was 11, I did an interview where I expressed my dream of winning Wimbledon. For me, this is the most beautiful tournament, court, and trophy." Alcaraz acknowledged his opponent's resilience, noting Djokovic's improved performance in the third set. "Djokovic is an incredible fighter; I knew he would seize his opportunities," Alcaraz remarked, recalling their five-set battle in the 2023 final. "It was challenging, but I aimed to remain calm during the tie-break and play my best tennis. I'm glad I could find the solutions in the end."
Alcaraz took an early lead with a stunning 14-minute opening game, capitalizing on his fifth break point. He quickly established his serve routine and secured a double break when Djokovic double-faulted in the fifth game. The stunned Serbian, competing in his 10th Wimbledon final, managed to hold serve without losing a point, narrowing the gap to 5-2, but then faulted into the net, conceding the first set. Alcaraz maintained his momentum in the second set, forcing a break in the first game and resisting pressure on his serve to lead 2-0. A Djokovic backhand error in the seventh game led to another break point, and a double fault pushed Alcaraz to a 5-2 lead, nearing a two-set advantage. The Centre Court audience, including Catherine, Princess of Wales, watched in astonishment as the anticipated intense match faded.
Djokovic, struggling, survived several break points early in the third set to stay in the game and began to find his rhythm. However, Alcaraz broke serve for a 5-4 lead and reached match point at 40-0, only to falter as Djokovic saved all three points and broke serve for the first time. The set proceeded to a tie-break, where Djokovic's forehand error gave Alcaraz a 5-3 lead, and the Spaniard clinched the title on his fourth championship point, rushing to celebrate with his family and coaching team. Alcaraz outshone Djokovic with 42 winners to 26. Princess Catherine, patron of the All England Club, presented the trophy. Recently diagnosed, she cautiously resumed public engagements in the UK, attending a military parade in London to commemorate King Charles III's official birthday.
Djokovic, yet to claim a title this year, will shift his focus to the Paris Olympics, aiming for his first gold medal. "It wasn't the outcome I desired, but the level of tennis in the initial sets wasn't up to my standards," he admitted. "But credit to Carlos for his top-tier play, especially from the backcourt; he excelled today."
