By Novak Djokovic outclassed Italian underdog Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Wimbledon final and set up a showdown with reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz in a repeat of last year’s final.
The 37-year-old impressed as he stayed on course for a record-equalling eighth men’s singles title at Wimbledon with a 6-4 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 victory on Centre Court. Djokovic showcased his resilience and skill throughout the match, maintaining composure under pressure and delivering crucial points when it mattered most.
Musetti, 22, had one chance to get the break back in the final set but sent a forehand into the net and crouched down with his head in his hands, knowing the end was near. Djokovic made sure his opponent did not get another opportunity.
Under pressure, Musetti sent a shot long before Djokovic walked to the net, knowing he had reached his 37th Grand Slam final and 10th at Wimbledon. The Serb then moved his racquet over his shoulder and imitated playing a violin, in a gesture aimed at his six-year-old daughter Tara, with television cameras showing her grinning along.
Some fans, however, started booing, thinking Djokovic, who produced the same celebration following his win over Holger Rune in the last 16, was being disrespectful. Despite the mixed reactions from the crowd, Djokovic remained focused on his goal.
Alcaraz beat Djokovic in last year’s showpiece, winning 1-6 7-6 (8-6) 6-1 3-6 6-4 in a five-set epic, which lasted four hours 42 minutes and is regarded as one of the best matches in the tournament’s history. The pair meet again on Sunday in what could be another amazing chapter in Wimbledon folklore.
Asked about Spaniard Alcaraz, Djokovic said: “He’s a great example of a player that has an all-around game, he has a great team around him, great values, a lot of charisma and carries himself superbly – that’s one of the reasons why he is so popular. He is one of the greatest 21-year-olds we’ve ever seen and we’re going to see a lot of him in the future, no doubt. He’s going to win many Grand Slams, but hopefully not in the next few weeks. He can do it when I retire.”
Alcaraz, 21, the defending champion, added: “He already beat me here in a Wimbledon final. That’s already done so I don’t expect anything less than a huge battle. I’m prepared and ready for it.”
Djokovic’s journey to the final was marked by remarkable consistency and moments of brilliance. In the semi-finals, he demonstrated his ability to remain calm and collected under pressure, a hallmark of his illustrious career. Musetti’s challenge, though spirited, was ultimately no match for the Serbian’s experience and skill.
The upcoming final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the sport’s greatest talents. Djokovic’s pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon title and Alcaraz’s bid to defend his crown set the stage for a memorable showdown on Centre Court.
Source:bbc.com
