"Tennis is in good hands": Novak Djokovic gives high praise to Carlos Alcaraz after exhibition loss in Riyadh
ATP
Novak Djokovic was defeated 6-4, 4-6, 4-6 by Carlos Alcaraz in Riyadh in an exhibition tie between two of the best in the world in the second day of action in Saudi Arabia.
While Djokovic now flies to the United Cup, that is it barring an exhibition in Murcia for Carlos Alcaraz before the Australian Open. But Djokovic in particular lavished high praise on his rival as he did pre-tournament and echoed the sentiment that he will be the future of the sport and that it is in safe hands with the Spaniard.
Albeit only an exhibition, Alcaraz put his full range of skills on display with Djokovic at points having to just stand there and applaud and after missing the Australian Open last year, the onus will be on making a good title fight this time around likely against the 24-time Grand Slam champion.
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"I've seen him on the internet. I've seen videos of him when he was 12 and already winning tournaments. It's impressive for such a young age to see what he's achieved," said Djokovic. "He's a very humble, nice guy. His family, his father, a very nice family with great values."
"It's fantastic to have him in our sport. He's one of the leaders of the sport today and he's definitely going to carry it in the next 10-15 years to come. Tennis is in good hands."
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Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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