06252023

When Will Alcaraz and Djokovic Play Each Other at the French Open?

The “others,” of course, means Alcaraz, who, perhaps because of his youth, comes to his matches from a vantage point other than energy conservation, looking instead to create the greatest spectacle possible.

He relished the prospect of Sunday’s match with Musetti, his smile breaking out and his eyes lighting up as he spoke of playing another flashy upstart.

“Really good rallies, good shots between us, and of course it’s going to be a really fun match to watch, as well,” he said.

At times, that can be as important to him as winning. He almost never sees a drop shot he does not want to race to, a lob he does not think he can chase down so he can extend the rally with a shot between the legs, even if it means giving his opponent an easy overhead, which he will also try to chase. He is the one making the magic but also its biggest fan.

After his win on Sunday, he confessed that sometimes, after his best shots, he wants to look up at the big screen in the stadium and drool over the replay along with everyone else in the crowd and watching on television at home.

“A lot of times,” he said.

Six more sets. Then, he and Djokovic will get to put on the show Roland Garros has been waiting for.

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