The Philippe Chatrier greeted standing up, with a solemn ovation, the best point of Roland Garros, the work of Carlos Alcaraz. When 67 minutes of his semifinal against Novak Djokovic were completed, the 'number one' of the ATP connected a pass in an unlikely position. The Serb's first reaction was applause and recognition: "It hasn't been bad," he exclaimed before the entire Central.
The point, with 6-4, 1-1 and 15-0 on the scoreboard, summed up the best virtues of Alcaraz. His leg power to reach Novak's volley and his creativity to invent a shot that simply defied the rules of physics. One of the most brilliant actions of recent years on the circuit. One Roger Federer could be proud of.
In just two seconds, the Spaniard seemed to correct himself to turn the point into something magical. At first he backed away thinking of a desperate return, but in a moment he realizes that he can arrive in time to hit well and at that moment he dances on the ball for an inconceivable turn of the wrist.
"That's what I have to change"
That agonistic ability to extend the actions seemed key for Carlos, who in a break of the first set, with 4-2 down, commented aloud towards his box, where Juan Carlos Ferrero sat: "There has not been a point that lasted more than five strokes. That's what I have to change. I can't beat him with such short points."
The recognition of the Parisian fans brought to mind what happened during the last final in Miami, full of memorable moments, between Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. That title, decided in favor of the Italian, was the rematch of the spectacular quarterfinals of the US Open 2022.
- tennis
- Carlos Alcaraz
- Novak Djokovic
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