“He loses with a smile”: Novak Djokovic praises Carlos Alcaraz’s charisma

Novak Djokovic has heaped praise on Carlos Alcaraz, highlighting his charisma and naming him the rightful successor of the Big-3 in terms of the values he brings to tennis. The 24-time Grand Slam champion reflected on his legendary rivalries with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray, stating that they ‘raised the standards’ for what is expected from a champion.

Alcaraz’s emergence in recent years has ushered in a new era, especially with the rise of a fierce rival in Jannik Sinner. By 2024, both had shared the four Grand Slam titles, winning six of the last seven majors. Djokovic did not hesitate to compare them to his own career-defining battles.

“We have Alcaraz and Sinner, who are developing a new rivalry. Nadal, Federer, and I—as well as Murray, who I have to include here—have really dominated men’s tennis over the last 15-20 years, and we have raised the standard and criteria quite high. Not only in terms of results but also with all the other aspects and expectations that a champion and world No. 1 should have—how he should represent the sport, how he should play that ambassador role, and be a leader in the game.”

“When we talk about charisma, Alcaraz stands out. Not only because of his matches, his exceptional achievements, and the results he has had at such a young age, but also because he is a very charismatic player—fair-play, kind to everyone. And when he loses, he does so with a smile, which is really impressive for someone so young, who doesn’t have much experience yet acts as if he has been on the tour for over 10 years.”

Djokovic also pointed to the key figures behind Alcaraz’s success, crediting his coach and former world No. 1 Juan Carlos Ferrero for instilling strong values.

“I think the cause of all this is his proper upbringing, his environment, his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero—a former world No. 1 and Grand Slam champion—who has passed down to him from a young age what it means to be an athlete.”

“Not just in terms of championship performances, achieving results, and perseverance, but also in terms of the sporting values and principles that should be upheld, nurtured, and passed on, serving as a guiding light for younger generations who follow tennis and dream of reaching the top one day.”