NEW DELHI: The defending Wimbledon champion,
Carlos Alcaraz
secured his spot in the men's singles final after a hard-fought victory against
Daniil Medvedev
.
The world No. 3 overcame a first-set loss to defeat Medvedev 6-7 (1/7), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4, setting the stage for a potential rematch of the 2023 final against
Novak Djokovic
.
Alcaraz, displaying composure beyond his 20 years, acknowledged the pressure of the upcoming final but emphasized his growing experience.
He admitted to initial nerves and praised Medvedev's strong start. However, Alcaraz showcased his resilience, breaking Medvedev's serve at crucial moments and dictating play with his powerful groundstrokes. He finished the match with an impressive 55 winners.
"Obviously it will be a really difficult match. Let's see who I am going to play on Sunday. I feel like I am not new anymore. I know how I am going to feel before the final. I have been in this position before. I started really nervous today. Daniil was dominating the match, playing great
tennis
. It was difficult for me," said Alcaraz, as quoted by AFP.
Medvedev, visibly frustrated throughout the match, received a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct after disputing a line call. Despite claiming the first set tie-breaker, he struggled to maintain consistency against Alcaraz's relentless attack.
Alcaraz now awaits the winner of the second semi-final between seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic and rising Italian star Lorenzo Musetti.
Djokovic, aiming for a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title, is considered the favourite against Musetti. A victory would mark his 10th
Wimbledon final
appearance and 37th
Grand Slam final
overall.
Despite undergoing knee surgery earlier this year, Djokovic has shown his trademark resilience and determination throughout the tournament.
Musetti, making his Centre Court debut, faces a formidable challenge against Djokovic. While acknowledging Djokovic's legendary status, Musetti will draw confidence from pushing Djokovic to five sets in their previous encounter at the French Open.
The potential for an all-Italian Grand Slam final is also on the line, with Jasmine Paolini set to compete in the women's singles final against Barbora Krejcikova.
The stage is set for a captivating Wimbledon final weekend, with history on the line for both Alcaraz and his yet-to-be-determined opponent.
English (US) ·