Novak Djokovic has said he has never faced a player quite like Carlos Alcaraz during his career spanning over 2 decades.
Alcaraz defeated 36-year-old Djokovi on Centre Court on Sunday, winning an enthralling Wimbledon final. Djokovic later described game style of Alcaraz as the combination of big three -- himself, Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer.
Djokovic has suffered only two Wimbledon defeats since losing to Andy Murray in the 2013 final. He said he was surprised at how quickly the 20-year-old Alcaraz had mastered playing on all the sport's surfaces.
"I didn't expect him to play so well this year on grass, but he's proven he's the best player in the world," Djokovic said after his 1-6, 7-6(6), 6-1, 3-6, 6-4 defeat.
‘Haven't played a player like him ever’
"I haven't played a player like him ever, to be honest. I think people have been talking in the past 12 months or so about his game consisting of certain elements from Roger, Rafa, and myself. I would agree with that,” Djokovic said.
"He's got basically the best of all three worlds. He's got this Spanish bull mentality, fighting spirit and incredible defence that we've seen with Rafa. I think he's got some nice sliding backhands, some similarities with my backhands,” Djokovic added.
Alcaraz shattered Novak Djokovic’s dream of winning record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title and fifth in a row.
In winning his first Wimbledon, Alcaraz removed any doubts about his world number one status and avenged his cramp-affected loss to Djokovic in the French Open semi-final.
Djokovic, who looked irritated at times with the pro-Alcaraz crowd, was generous in defeat. But he admitted there were some regrets after lacking his usual clinical ability to take chances when they came his way at crucial moments.
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