Corretja believes Alcaraz is in for a battle in standout Djokovic clash: "He's going to suffer"

Former player Alex Corretja broke down the upcoming Carlos Alcaraz - Novak Djokovic match at Roland Garros for Eurosport and how it might unfold.

Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will battle for a spot in the final and in many ways it's the final before the final. The winner of this matchup will likely be favoured in the final regardless of who comes out on the other side so in many ways this might be the match that determines who lifts the trophy.

Former player Corretja knows both players well and he broke down what he's expecting out of it:

"Everybody is so pumped for Carlitos to do well here at Roland-Garros. They are expecting that big clash against Djokovic. I’m sure it’s not going to be easy, but everyone is confident with Alcaraz back home; that he can do well and play well, being ready, but he’s going to suffer, because it’s not easy to beat Djokovic in best of five."

Read also

2023 French Open Roland Garros ATP and WTA Prize Money and Points Breakdown with €49.6m on offer

Win condition Alcaraz

When it comes to what Alcaraz needs to do to win Corretja highlighted patience:

"He needs to be patient, and wait for his chance. He needs to play his game. He doesn't need to change anything specific. He will need to be there knowing that Novak has plenty of experience of best of fives, that he’s going to play deep and long rallies. Novak is going to try to serve well. Carlos needs to dictate; playing aggressively, but not rushing. It’s difficult to maintain the level for two and a half, three hours, trying to win every single point. It’s good to be creative, but he might need to be practical, not going for every shot for a winner, because Novak might play quite stably. He’s going to do as best he can, using his experience, his serve, and playing as deep as he can so Carlos can’t dictate and play a lot of drop shots or winners."

Summing up his thoughts, Corretja added:

"I’m expecting a big battle, but I think Carlos has a bit more variation in his game, but Novak has, for sure, more experience."

Read also

Tennis fans laud Sloane Stephens outfit choices after Nike split:"A stylish queen"