Novak Djokovic, the world’s top-ranked tennis player, came to the defense of Carlos Alcaraz on Thursday, addressing Alcaraz’s absence from this week’s Davis Cup matches.
Alcaraz, a 20-year-old rising star from Spain, withdrew from the final group stage of the Davis Cup after his defeat to Daniil Medvedev in the US Open semi-finals, citing the need for rest.
Spain’s Struggles Without Alcaraz
Spain found themselves in a tough spot, missing the services of the world number two, when they suffered a 3-0 loss to the Czech Republic in their opening Group C tie in Valencia. Djokovic, whose Serbian team was set to face Spain next, expressed his thoughts to the Spanish media in Valencia, acknowledging the disappointment among fans but also emphasizing the importance of understanding Alcaraz’s situation.
Djokovic’s Perspective
Djokovic remarked, “Maybe you guys are upset he’s not playing for Spain because he’s 20 years old and I’m 36, and how he’s tired and I’m not.
“It’s important to understand he’s got a lot of time ahead of him.”
Djokovic reminded everyone that Alcaraz had already represented Spain last year, even winning the US Open, demonstrating his commitment to his country.
Djokovic also touched on his own experiences, recalling the backlash he faced when choosing not to compete for Serbia in the Davis Cup in the past.
The Challenge of Davis Cup Commitment
Djokovic acknowledged the difficulties of always being available for national team duty while participating in a demanding individual sport.
He stated, “It’s difficult to always be perfect and always available.
“We’re part of an individual sport, you represent your country but also yourself and there’s a lot of tournaments, and he has played a lot.”
Alcaraz is Not Superman
In his candid defense, Djokovic emphasized, “Even though he’s 20 years old, it doesn’t mean he’s a Superman.
He needs to rest as well.” Djokovic also admitted, somewhat humorously, that Alcaraz’s absence might work to Serbia’s advantage in the Davis Cup, but he expressed confidence that Alcaraz would return and continue to bring joy to Spain.
Djokovic’s Commitment to Serbia
Despite his own taxing schedule, Djokovic was ready to contribute to Serbia’s quest to qualify for the Davis Cup knockout finals in Malaga.
He acknowledged feeling the strain from a grueling season but emphasized his determination to adapt and perform for his country.
Djokovic concluded, “There’s not much time to recover, I have to try and maintain the intensity and try to do everything I can to adapt my body and myself to the new time zone and new conditions and contribute to my country with the points.”
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