Carlos Alcaraz’s Magic Shot Elicits Comparisons to Federer in French Open Semifinals Against Djokovic

Carlos Alcaraz is plagued by cramps in the semifinals of the French Open and is defeated by Novak Djokovic. Before his own body slows him down, the Spaniard shows a magic stroke – with amazing parallels to Roger Federer.

Immediately after equalizing the set in the semifinals of Roland Garros, Carlos Alcaraz was stopped by severe cramps and from then on he could no longer keep up with Novak Djokovic. Before that, the Spaniard proved his class several times – above all, a magic stroke at the beginning of the 2nd set triggered a storm of enthusiasm on the Philippe-Chatrier court.

Alcaraz is literally chased across the pitch by Djokovic. After a stop ball, which the lightning-fast Spaniard can reach, the Serb follows up with a lob. But even that is not enough. On the contrary: Alcaraz not only runs the ball, but also plays it elegantly past Djokovic – and tears the spectators from their seats.

Just like a certain Roger Federer 17 years ago. The Swiss hit a passing ball with amazing parallels to the Alcaraz feat against David Nalbandian in his 2006 semi-final.

Will Djokovic be the sole record Grand Slam winner?

The difference: Federer finally leaves the field as the winner against Nalbandian, but has to bury his hopes for the title in the final of 2006 against Sandkönig Nadal after a defeat in four sets, just like Alcaraz did this year.

Instead, Novak Djokovic and Casper Ruud will duel for the title in Roland Garros on Sunday in the final. If Djokovic lives up to his role as a favourite, he will become the sole record holder with 23 Grand Slam titles ahead of Rafael Nadal (22) and Roger Federer (20).