Novak Djokovic rubbishes criticism of Carlos Alcaraz: ‘At 21, he has won four Grand Slams, what more do you want?'
'No, I don't understand it (the criticism Alcaraz has faced),' Djokovic was quoted as saying by Eurosport Spain ahead of the Madrid Masters. 'But the atmosphere and tradition of tennis in this country is very high. The expectation is enormous after Nadal, (Carlos) Moya, (Juan Carlos) Ferrero… they've all been world No. 1. But, listen. He's 21 years old, he's won four Grand Slams and many tournaments. What more do you want? You want more, but what he's done in this period is incredible.' Alcaraz has hit some good form recently, winning the Monte Carlos Masters and reaching the final in Barcelona where he was beaten by Holger Rune.
The Spanish sensation has done it 🇪🇸 @carlosalcaraz triumphs over Novak Djokovic, 1-6, 7-6(6), 6-1, 3-6, 6-4 in an all-time classic #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/sPGLXr2k99
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
Djokovic has arrived in Madrid chasing form for a potential 25th Major at Roland Garros. He's also on the hunt for a 100th career title. But after an indifferent few years on tour, he was asked if his motivation has fallen after seeing his rivals retire — one of them, Andy Murray has even joined up with him as his coach. The Serb said the fire still burns to make more history.
'Maybe so,' he said when asked if his motivation has reduced after seeing Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal retire. 'But if I'm not motivated, I'm not here. I don't play anymore. I put the racquet to rest. I still feel the desire to play, the passion to compete is always there. I hope to push harder. The Grand Slams are tournaments where I have more motivation to do well,' the 37-year-old added.
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