Carlos Alcaraz is a two-time Wimbledon champion after beating Novak Djokovic for the second year in a row to successfully defend his men’s singles title.
The 21-year-old once again denied Djokovic in his bid to win a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon men’s title, as the 37-year-old fell short in his attempts to win a 25th grand slam.
A year on from his epic five-set triumph, Alcaraz produced a masterclass and claimed a fourth grand slam title with a one-sided destruction of most successful men’s player of all time. Alcaraz dominated from the start and came through a nervy third-set tiebreak after squandering three match points to win 6-2 6-2 7-6 in two and half hours.
Alcaraz becomes just the third man in the Open era to win multiple Wimbledon titles aged 21 or under. The Spaniard now has four grand slam titles, and is just the sixth man in the Open era to win the French Open and Wimbledon in the same summer.
Elsewhere, Britain’s Alfie Hewett has won the wheelchair singles title for the first time, defeating Spain’s Martin de la Puente 6-2 6-3 to complete the career grand slam. Hewett put his celebrations on hold as he later teamed up with Reid for a sixth wheelchair doubles victory. Barbora Krejecikova won the women’s singles title yesterday after a three-set win over Jasmine Paolini, while British hopeful Henry Patten won the men’s doubles alongside partner Harri Heliovaara.
Follow all the latest scores and match updates from the Wimbledon men’s final below:
Wimbledon day 14 - latest scores and updates
- REPORT: Carlos Alcaraz delivers destruction of Novak Djokovic to win second Wimbledon title
- Alcaraz, 21, also defeated Djokovic last year in five-set epic to win first Wimbledon final
- ‘It’s a dream’: Alcaraz on defending Wimbledon title against Djokovic
- Princess Kate in attendance at the final and will present trophy in just second public appearance since cancer announcement
- Alfie Hewett wins Wimbledon men’s wheelchair singles final for first time
- Hewett puts celebrations on pause as he and Gordon Reid retain Wimbledon doubles title
- Barbora Krejcikova defeated Jasmine Paolini yesterday to win women’s singles final
Carlos Alcaraz delivers destruction of Novak Djokovic to win second Wimbledon title
16:59
Jamie Braidwood
For a little more than two hours, Carlos Alcaraz took to the Wimbledon final and made facing Novak Djokovic look like a saunter under the sun on Centre Court. It wasn’t until the very end, serving for the title with three Championship points, that the 21-year-old was gripped by nerves. But as he banished thoughts of that forehand drive volley, put agonisingly wide, and took to the tiebreak, Alcaraz underlined what was clear from the very start of this Wimbledon final: this was a merciless destruction of the most successful men’s player of all time, who was once again denied a record-equalling eighth title by the brilliant Spaniard.
If the rematch did not live up to last year’s five-set epic, it was only because Alcaraz’s victory was so crushing, a 6-2 6-2 7-6 (7-4) scoreline that would have been even more emphatic had he not blinked when serving for his second successive title. In his 37th grand slam final, Djokovic suffered one of his heaviest ever defeats, second only to Rafael Nadal in the final of the 2020 French Open. Centre Court waited on a flicker from Djokovic but Alcaraz smothered him from start to end. When given a reprieve in the tiebreak, Alcaraz picked apart his 37-year-old opponent and found the serves required to finally get over the line.
If Alcaraz’s first Wimbledon title was an improbable and unexpected triumph, his second signals that he is already on the path to becoming an all-time great. Alcaraz becomes just the third man aged 21 and under to win multiple Wimbledon titles, after Bjorn Borg and Borris Becker. The Spaniard is just the sixth man in the Open era to win Roland Garros and Wimbledon in the same summer, joining Borg, Rod Laver, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic. Those are the footsteps that the 21-year-old is following and this victory over Djokovic proved that when Alcaraz is locked in, he is close to unstoppable.
BBC commentator Nick Kyrgios giving his thoughts on the final:
19:06
Mike Jones
“I think last year Alcaraz started really slow but this year was a totally different story, he came out with a lot of energy and there was a 15-minute first game and he got the break and that really set the tone.
“I think Novak started panicking a little bit with the game plan, started serving and volleying, he went to the net probably more times today than he had previously in any other match [in the tournament].
“Djokovic has beaten every great of the game - Federer, Nadal, playing his game style, so coming out today with something completely different was definitely odd. Whether it was him not being able to go physically the way he wanted - maybe he wanted to keep points short. But as I said, Alcaraz was feeling it a little too much.”
Carlos Alcaraz defends Wimbledon title against Novak Djokovic
18:54
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz entertains the crowd at Wimbledon by revealing the trophy from the balcony:
18:48
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz gives the thousands of fans at #Wimbledon a glimpse of the Gentlemen's Singles Trophy pic.twitter.com/QLpYXrlSnC
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 14, 2024
Carlos Alcaraz praising Novak Djokovic:
18:42
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz shares some kind words for his opponent, Novak Djokovic #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/dbB83Ic0jU
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 14, 2024
Alcaraz on Novak Djokovic:
18:36
Mike Jones
“I’m so nervous in this speech and I forgot to have some words for Novak and his team. It’s been a difficult few weeks for you. You had surgery after the French Open and you didn’t know if you could make the tournament and you made the final.
“It is something difficult to realise that you played points and matches just two weeks after your surgery. Great job and keep going.”
Alcaraz on his team:
18:30
Mike Jones
“My team and family, everyone up there supporting. It’s been an amazing four weeks. I’ve practiced hard.
“All the support every day, every week. It’s unbelievable to have you there. Thank you very much and hopefully we’ll have more times like this.”
Alcaraz on being sixth man in open era to win the French Open-Wimbledon double:
18:24
Mike Jones
“Fighting, believing. I don’t know. it is a huge honour for me to be a part of those players. I’m really happy to be at the same table as Novak to do it. Huge champions.
“I don’t consider myself a champion yet. Not like them. I try to keep going and building my path, my journey.”
Carlos Alcaraz on responding after losing three match point:
18:18
Mike Jones
“It was 40-0 but I was seeing so far away. Djokovic is an unbelievable fighter and I knew he would have his chances again and I tried to win the pioint with the serve, I couldn’t. It was difficult for me.
“I tried to stay calm and positive. In the tie break, I tried to play my best tennis. I was glad I could find the solutions. I’m really happy to be in this situation and playing a great tie break.”
Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid retain Wimbledon doubles title
18:13
Jamie Braidwood
Alfie Hewett put his celebrations on hold as he later teamed up with Gordon Reid for a sixth wheelchair doubles victory at Wimbledon.
The British pair downed Japanese duo Tokito Oda and Takuya Miki 6-4 7-6 (2) on Court Three in exactly two hours.
A forehand winner by Reid sealed the championship and kept the British pair on course for a second calendar Grand Slam after wins at the Australian Open and French Open earlier this year.
Carlos Alcaraz speaking after winning his second Wimbledon title:
18:12
Mike Jones
“Honestly, it is a dream for me winning this trophy. I did an interview when I was 11 and I said my dream is to win Wimbledon. I want it to keep going.
“It is a great feeling to play on this beautiful court and lift this amazing trophy. It is the most beautiful court and trophy.”
Carlos Alcaraz defends Wimbledon title against Novak Djokovic
18:06
Mike Jones
Alcaraz joining the tennis greats
18:00
Mike Jones
This is a good stat:
Rod Laver (1969)
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) July 14, 2024
Bjorn Borg (1978-80)
Rafael Nadal (2008, 2010)
Roger Federer (2009)
Novak Djokovic (2021)
Carlos Alcaraz (2024)
The sixth player to win the Channel Slam of Roland-Garros & #Wimbledon in the same year in men’s singles! pic.twitter.com/lcZJ1z8Jjq
Turn away England fans
17:54
Mike Jones
The previous three times there’s been a Spanish men’s champion at Wimbledon, Spain have gone on to claim major football trophies.
Those were Rafa Nadal and the Euros in 2008, Nadal again and the World Cup in 2010 and Carlos Alcaraz and the women’s World Cup last year, when Spain defeated England in the final.
That could be coincidence but also fate. Either way it’s not a great sign for England’s chances tonight.
Alcaraz on the Euro 2024 final:
17:48
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz says he’s ‘already done his job’ on this huge day for sport. Next up Spain take on England in the Euro 2024 final. Here’s what the defending Wimbledon champion had to say about the football:
"I've already done my job"
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 14, 2024
Carlos Alcaraz has done his part, now to watch Spain vs England in the #EURO2024 final...#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/GRL1ygoz5W
More from Alcaraz
17:42
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz is the sixth man in history to do win both the French Open and Wimbledon double in the same year. Asked how that felt he said:
“It’s huge to be part of the players who’ve achieved Roland Garros and Wimbledon in the same year. Huge champions.”
Interviewer Annabel Croft then brings up the Euro 2024 final and a few good-natured boos are sent Alcaraz’s way as he is supporting his home nation Spain who take on England.
He said: “With my team, for sure [I’ll be watching it]. I watch it for sure. I’ve already done my job … now let’s see the football. It’s going to be a really difficult match.”
Here are the thoughts from Carlos Alcaraz
17:36
Mike Jones
“Honestly it’s a dream for me winning this trophy,” Alcaraz said as he spoke on Centre Court following his win. “It’s a great feeling to play on this beautiful court and trophy. It’s the most beautiful tournament.
He is asked about the game which saw him lose three match points and get broken when serving for the match, to which he replied:
“It was 40-0. Djokovic is an unbelievable fighter, I tried to win with my serve, but I couldn’t. I tried to stay calm and positive going into the tie-break and play my best tennis.
“That’s all I was thinking about. I’m glad at the end I could find the solutions.”
Novak Djokovic gives verdict on crushing Wimbledon final defeat by Carlos Alcaraz
17:30
Mike Jones
Novak Djokovic hailed Carlos Alcaraz’s “complete tennis” after a straight-sets beating in the men’s singles final at Wimbledon.
Alcaraz dominated his opponent to win 6-2 6-2 7-6(4) on Centre Court and claim back-to-back Wimbledon titles and his fourth grand slam at only 21 years old.
Djokovic managed to save three Championship points at the end of the third set, forcing a tie-break, but it was not enough to stop Alcaraz, as the 37-year-old’s wait for a 25th grand slam went on.
A final word from Novak Djokovic:
17:24
Mike Jones
“To my wife I love you. To my wonderful children thank you for bringing the smile to my face every single day. I’m so thankful to be a father of two little angels who love tennis.
“I don’t know if I have the nerves to have a coaching career with my son; but if you really wish to pursue it I’ll be there for you.
“Enough talking. I just want to say thanks to my whole team, for sticking with me through good and bad times. I love you guys, thanks for being in my corner, let’s keep this going.”
‘I’m living my childhood dream’ says Djokovic
17:19
Mike Jones
Here’s more from Novak Djokovic’s post-match interview. He said: “I have to be very proud.
“Obviously there’s disappointment right now but when I reflect on the last four to five weeks [37 days after knee surgery]. What I’ve been through, I’m very satisfied.
“I try to remind myself sometimes of how surreal it is being here; being really blessed to fight for the trophy. Every time I step on the court it feels like the first time.
“I’m a child living my childhood dream.”
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
17:14
Mike Jones
“He was definitely very hot today,” Novak Djokovic says in his post-match interview.
“Obviously not the result I wanted, especially in the first couple of sets. I wasn’t up to par but credit to Carlos. I tried to push him and save the three match points to extend the match a little bit longer.
“But he was the deserved winner today.”
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
17:09
Mike Jones
Here’s the moment Carlos Alcaraz won his second Wimbledon title:
Astounding Alcaraz
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 14, 2024
The Spaniard defends his #Wimbledon title with a stunning straight sets victory over Novak Djokovic, 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(4) pic.twitter.com/bEbT9HwMZh
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
17:04
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz becomes just the third player to win two men’s Wimbledon titles before the age of 22.
Boris Becker is the youngest ever Wimbledon winner, taking the title aged 17 and then retaining it the following year with Bjorn Borg the only other player to have achieved the feat.
Alcaraz (21 years, 70 days) is the third-youngest player in the Open Era to win the men’s singles title at Wimbledon in back-to-back editions, after Becker (18 years, 227 days, 1985-86) and Borg (21 years, 26 days, 1976-77).
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
16:56
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz becomes the ninth man to retain his Wimbledon title in the Open era.
Novak Djokovic was the last player to do so, winning in both 2021 and 2022. Also on the list is Roger Federer, Pete Sampras, Boris Becker, John McEnroe, Bjorn Borg, John Newcombe and Rod Laver.
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
16:53
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
16:51
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz now comes forward and collects the famous gold trophy off the Princess of Wales. He’s got a huge smile which shows how much winning at Wimbledon means.
Novak Djokovic will now say a few words.
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
16:46
Mike Jones
Here comes Novak Djokovic.
He’s greeted by the Princess of Wales and receives the runners-up plate which he lifts to the sky in an acknowledgement to the crowd who cheer him in return.
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
16:44
Mike Jones
The Princess of Wales comes out onto Centre Court for the awards presentation. She is making her first public appearance in almost a month and seems to have enjoyed that match.
There is a loud round of applause for her as she leaves the Royal Box to comes to court.
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
16:43
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in straight sets to win Wimbledon men’s final
16:41
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz defends his title! This time in massive impressive fashion, dominating an underperforming Novak Djokovic in straight sets to take the win.
It’s all smiles as he climbs into the player’s box and hugs his team.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 6-7 (4-7) Carlos Alcaraz
16:38
Mike Jones
If Alcaraz wins both points from his serve the match is his. He takes the first one with the finest of drop shots after being forced into a second serve.
Now he’s serving to win the match. Can he take it?
Yes! Novak Djokovic hits a backhand into the net and the tie break goes to Alcaraz. He has blown Novak Djokovic away on Centre Court today.
That’s game, set and match!
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 6-6 Carlos Alcaraz*
16:36
Mike Jones
Oh! Novak Djokovic totally misjudges a forehand and he nails it well wide of the court. Alcaraz edges ahead again.
Djokovic serves-and-volleys to take the next point though. He’s clinging on. Alcaraz leads 5-4.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 6-6 Carlos Alcaraz
16:34
Mike Jones
A fault from Alcaraz sets up Djokovic to attack the second serve. The Serbian does so and mullers a backhand over the net. Alcaraz responds with backhand of his own but knocks it wide and loses his last challenge.
Alcaraz clings on to the next point with a drop shot but Djokovic has this tie break back on serve. Alcaraz leads 4-3.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 6-6 Carlos Alcaraz*
16:31
Mike Jones
This is tense. Djokovic misses a first serve so Alcaraz gets back the return. He eases into the middle of court then whips a forehand down the line to win the point! That’s a mini break for him.
Djokovic then holds the next point. Alcaraz leads 3-2.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 6-6 Carlos Alcaraz
16:30
Mike Jones
Alcaraz has a gentle passing shot to win the first point but he pushes it wide. Djokovic goes into the lead.
The Spaniard has the next two serves, he takes the first point with a strong forehand then gets drawn into a backhand rally. Djokovic looks to go down the line but finds the net!
Alcaraz leads 2-1.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 6-6 Carlos Alcaraz
16:28
Mike Jones
Nick Kyrgios says that Carlos Alcaraz has to remain in the present and realise he is in the driving seat. The Spaniard starts the next game with a great serve that Djokovic doesn’t get back.
Next up he serves to the backhand and the return floats out of play. 30-0.
Wonderful! Alcaraz sends down a second serve, then finds the corner. He comes up the court and needs to manoeuvre a half-volley over the net with his backhand to move 40-0 up.
Djokovic attempts an ambitious forehand return but goes wide. The game is Alcaraz’s and we’re into a tie break!
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 6-5 Carlos Alcaraz*
16:24
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz needs to shake off that last game. Novak Djokovic is through the next game in rapid time and holds serve meaning at the very least he’s forcing this third set to a tie break.
Alcaraz has to hold now. This is pressure.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 5-5 Carlos Alcaraz - BREAK
16:23
Mike Jones
It’s a break! Novak Djokovic saves three match points and flies from deuce to the win. Oh my word then match continues.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 4-5 Carlos Alcaraz*
16:20
Mike Jones
A bouncy backhand from Alcaraz sends Djokovic to the left. He pumps one out of play. 15-0.
Alcaraz then finds the centre line and Djokovic fails to return. 30-0.
Djokovic returns a wide serve, Alcaraz dinks it over the net, Djokovic sprints to the ball but flicks it into the tape. 40-0.
Alcaraz double faults. 40-15.
The Spaniard misses his first serve, Djokovic returns and Alcaraz drills one into the net. 40-30.
Alcaraz serves wide, Djokovic flicks the return back, Alcaraz misses the volley to win it! 40-40.
This games goes to deuce...
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 4-5 Carlos Alcaraz*
16:15
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz is going to serve for the match here. Novak Djokovic looks mad. There are new balls for this game. Settle in, it won’t be a quick one.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 4-5 Carlos Alcaraz* - BREAK
16:14
Mike Jones
Oh wow! Novak Djokovic gets the first serve in but Carlos Alcaraz dominates. He sets up for a forehand down the line and unleashes the shot to take the point from Djokovic.
Djokovic then misses his first serve and Alcaraz goes on the attack. He finds the baseline with consecutive shots and Djokovic flicks a backhand long.
A poor volley from the Serb gives Alcaraz the easiest of passing winners and he’s 0-40 up with three break points.
Djokovic saves the first. He can’t save the second! Alcaraz wins it with a backhand passing winner and breaks in the third set!
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 4-4 Carlos Alcaraz
16:11
Mike Jones
It’s taken almost two hours but Novak Djokovic has arrived. He’s got a massive mountain to climb to get back into the match and all Carlos Alcaraz can do is attempt to weather the storm by holding his own serves.
He starts off with a solid backhand then wins the second point after Djokovic hits the net. The Serbian is chattering away to himself, trying to find some motivation.
Alcaraz forces an inside out forehand across court, lands it in the corner and moves 40-0 up. That doesn’t last long and Djokovic comes to the net forces Alcaraz to attempt a lob then wins with an overhead smash.
The Spaniard aces with a wide serve. Still all square.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 4-3 Carlos Alcaraz*
16:07
Mike Jones
Bang, bang, bang, bang!
Absolutely no pressure felt by Novak Djokovic who takes all four points with excellent first serves and a nice volley. He’s through the game in no time.
Over to you Carlos.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 3-3 Carlos Alcaraz
16:05
Mike Jones
This game goes over the 10 minute mark and goes to a fourth deuce. Alcaraz gets a backhand to land on the left sideline and Djokovic’s lunging return goes wide.
The Spaniard then aces and the game is his! Another superb and important hold. Nothing to split them in this third set.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 3-2 Carlos Alcaraz*
16:03
Mike Jones
The crowd cheer! Alcaraz plays a drop shot, Djokovic gets it back, Alcaraz tries the lob, Djokovic responds with a high backhand volley that goes long.
Djokovic meets the next serve with a return to the baseline and Alcaraz whips the half-volley over the back of court. Back to deuce.
Wonderful! Alcaraz goes wide, Djokovic returns, Alcaraz’s next shot is down the middle but Djokovic pings a backhand past him to move to advantage and set up a break point.
But, Alcaraz finds the line, Djokovic fails to return. Deuce again...
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 3-2 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:59
Mike Jones
That deserved more! Novak Djokovic drives a backhand and clips the line but Alcaraz is there to flick the ball back and continue the rally. Djokovic controls it, for the most part, but then pushes a forehand too wide.
He takes the next point to make it interesting at 15-15 before messing up a backhand volley despite dominating the rally. Alcaraz nudges into the lead.
The Spaniard gets his first serve to land but Djokovic goes on the attack. He forces Alcaraz to defend whilst coming forward. A booming forehand from Djokovic goes long and a late call for ‘out’ puts Alcaraz 40-15 up.
Djokovic is giving his all in this game. Alcaraz gives up the next point then misses his first serve. Djokovic finds the corner forces a loopy return then takes the point to reach deuce.
Here we go...
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 3-2 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:52
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz miscues an attempted lob with Novak Djokovic at the net and gives away the first point of this fifth game. The next rally develops into a backhand contest and Alcaraz goes long trying to switch to the forehand.
Djokovic then moves 40-0 into the lead after Alcaraz finds the net and Djokovic wins it with a serve out wide. He’ll be pleased with that.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 2-2 Carlos Alcaraz
15:50
Mike Jones
Novak Djokovic will be feeling good after that one. Can he translate that into putting pressure on Carlos Alcaraz’s serve?
Not with shots like that. Alcaraz finds the line with a sharp return to wrongfoot the Serb and moves ahead. The next point goes to the Spaniard too.
Alcaraz is forced up to the net through a drop shot and picks to go across court with a short one of his own. Djokovic sprints to the ball but knocks it out of play.
Alcaraz then holds to love. Slightly demoralising for Djokovic after slogging out his own hold of serve.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 2-1 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:46
Mike Jones
Hold! Massive moment for Novak Djokovic who clinches the game thanks to a wayward forehand from Carlos Alcaraz. He needed that one.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 1-1 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:45
Mike Jones
From deuce Alcaraz earns a second break point but a fine volley at the net bring Djokovic back level at deuce. An ace then puts the Serb to advantage but he can’t capitalise.
It does feel as though Djokovic is trying to force the issue with Alcaraz settled in his natural game. Djokovic saves another break point but doesn’t look happy.
Alcaraz then clips the tape with a backhand down the line and sets up a fourth break point. Djokovic aces. Back to deuce, this looks like another defining game.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 1-1 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:40
Mike Jones
“No, no!” cries Nick Kyrgios as Carlos Alcaraz drives a passing forehand winner past Novak Djokovic. Even he can’t believe the levels the Spaniard is hitting.
Alcaraz takes the next point to move 0-30 up and Djokovic then misses his next first serve. The Spaniard looks for a sliced drop shot but it bounces up kindly for Djokovic.
He chips the ball back and gets on the board before an ace brings him level. 30-30, twists and turns.
On no! Djokovic, seemingly caught in two minds, looks for a backhad drop shot which fails to clear the net. Alcaraz has a break point but Djokovic saves it.
He flings a few forehands at his opponents who manages to defend the first two before Djokovic takes the game to deuce.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 1-1 Carlos Alcaraz
15:36
Mike Jones
Alcaraz holds!
But, that game is a sign that Novak Djokovic is never beaten. There was an opportunity for him and Alcaraz had to pull out some unbelievable shots to get it done.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 1-0 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:34
Mike Jones
Alcaraz messes up a couple of times in his first service game meaning Djokovic moves 0-30 up for the first time in the match. The Spaniard manages to land a first serve aimed at the body and then spanks the defensive reply to the far corner to win the point.
Wow! How has Alcaraz won that. Djokovic forces him deep, approaches the net, volleys over for the drop but Alcaraz sprints up and flicks over a passing winner. 30-30.
Alcaraz, on the defence, then whips a forehand down the line to win the next point. That’s three in a row and takes him 40-30 up. Djokovic manages to get the return of serve back next up and forces deuce.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 1-0 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:30
Mike Jones
This match has been going on for just an hour and 17 minutes. Carlos Alcaraz is two sets up and Novak Djokovic is staring down the barrel. He needs to win the next three to take this title.
That’s a perfect start. A hold to 15 and Djokovic is on the board first in the third set. The crowd are also giving him some encouragement too.
They want to see more tennis.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-6 Carlos Alcaraz
15:25
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz has a double break in the second set and he’s about to serve to take it. Just like in the first set he starts off this crucial game with a double fault. Nerves perhaps?
If there are any he’s not letting them show. A serve down the centre line sees Djokovic’s return land in the net before another fine serve - 108mph second serve - has Djokovic pelting one over the back of court.
Djokovic switches things up again. He approaches the net, forces the lob and then smashes back a winner. 30-30.
Alcaraz serves wide and wins another point, this next one could bring him the set. It does!
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-5 Carlos Alcaraz* - BREAK
15:20
Mike Jones
Yep. Wonderful work. Djokovic has found some rhythm from the serve and quickly takes the first two points of the game.
Another decent serve allows him to get up to the net for a volley but Alcaraz sprints forward, slides and flicks the ball back into play and gets the Serb running backwords. He manages to reach the ball but lifts it out of play.
That’s a turning point. Djokovic then errs twice, the second with a volley from the net, and Alcaraz has a break point.
Djokovic attempts to go down the middle twice, faults twice and the break is Alcaraz’s!
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-4 Carlos Alcaraz
15:17
Mike Jones
At times there are no words. No words to describe how good some of these shots are.
Novak Djokovic looks to be in control of the rally. Carlos Alcaraz stretches for a backhand return then whips it over the net, down the line and past his opponent. From defence to attack in a blink of an eye.
That sets up the game. Alcaraz’s impressive display is affecting Djokovic whose accuracy is ever so slighty off. More errors and Alcaraz holds serve to love.
He’s closing in on the second set too.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 2-3 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:13
Mike Jones
Very good.
Novak Djokovic may be starting to settle in on this court. He holds to love and cuts the gap in the second set. If anyone can turn this match around it’s him.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 1-3 Carlos Alcaraz
15:11
Mike Jones
That’s a quick serve from Alcaraz and heads to Djokovic’s forehand which he returns into the net. Another error from Djokovic sees him find the net again before Alcaraz approaches in the next rally and flicks a low volley over to move 40-0 up.
Djokovic responds well, he comes forward to set up a volley and finds the space. It’ll be tough to win from this position but the belief will be there.
Oh nevermind!
Carlos Alcaraz that is crazy. He runs over to the ball and plays a cross court backhand drop shot that takes everyone by surprise and gives him a hold of serve.
Incredible.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 1-2 Carlos Alcaraz*
15:07
Mike Jones
Novak Djokovic does seem to be seriously considering how to get himself out of this hole. He looks more contemplative than usual and there are more errors than we’re used to seeing from him.
Alcaraz takes a 15-30 lead but the whips a return too wide to bring Djokovic level.
Djokovic serves to the middle of the box and controls the next rally. He pushes Alcaraz over to his right and lets the ball go as the Spaniard hooks a forehand too long.
Game! Djokovic wins the game with a fine drop shot. Big hold.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 0-2 Carlos Alcaraz
15:03
Mike Jones
Hold! Alcaraz consolidates his break in the second set.
Nick Kyrgios says on BBC commentary: “This is the first match I’ve ever watched in my life in which Novak Djokovic has no answers... at the minute.”
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 0-1 Carlos Alcaraz
15:01
Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz saw a lot of joy in the first set by landing his first serves. He starts off the second set with a double fault knowing a hold here would give him a very strong lead.
Another missed first serve means he decides to for a bouncy second serve. Djokovic attacks it with a two-handed backhand but sends it too long.
Alcaraz is buoyed by that. He employs the drop shot in the next rally to take the lead before mullering a forehand down the line to move 40-15. That is top quality.
The next two rallies are not. First Alcaraz goes into the net and then double faults. This game goes to deuce.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-6 0-1 Carlos Alcaraz* - BREAK
14:57
Mike Jones
Novak Djokovic’s right knee has some strapping on it and there’s a question of whether that may have hindered him in the first set. It’s doubtful as the Serb is a renowned winner and knows how much his body can take but the possibility is there.
Djokovic has the first serve in this set and will hope to start strongly.
He doesn’t. More errors, sending the ball too long, gift Carlos Alcaraz a 15-40 lead and two attempts to break. The first sees Djokovic serve out wide but the Spaniard gets the ball back.
Djokovic hits a forehand across court and approaches the net. Alcaraz pings one back and Djokovic volleys into the net. It’s another break of serve!
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 2-6 Carlos Alcaraz
14:51
Mike Jones
Djokovic meets Alcaraz’s serve with an attempted forehand slice but can’t get it over the net. The Spaniard then double faults for the first time in the match, 15-15.
Oh nice! A second serve is hit back at Alcaraz who then comes down on a forehand that flies to the opposite side of court to Djokovic and brings him a winner.
The next rally has Djokovic flick a backhand right onto the baseline to set up the possibility of a forehand smash but he nails that opportunity into the tape. 40-15.
Wow! Just when you think the Serb isn’t on it he pulls off a fine cross court backhand (whilst under pressure) and makes Alcaraz serve again to take the set.
This time the Spaniard finishes things off. He takes the first set 6-2.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 2-5 Carlos Alcaraz*
14:46
Mike Jones
Better from Djokovic. He serves out wide and Alcaraz gets the return back. Djokovic comes to the net though and volleys twice to take the point.
In no time he’s up to 40-0 and holds serve when his opponent finds the net. Alcaraz will now serve to win the first set.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 1-5 Carlos Alcaraz
14:44
Mike Jones
That’s good! Djokovic takes the first point of the next game but Alcaraz responds with a wide serve and a follow up backhand volley.
In going to the Serb’s forehand he forces Djokovic into the net and moves 30-15 up but can only drill a forehand (which he strikes heavy) into the net himself.
Not much separating the two men at the minute.
Alcaraz tries for a drop shot but the execution is slightly off and the ball fails to clear the tape. This is Djokovic’s first break point... Alcaraz saves it!
At deuce Djokovic pushes one too long before an ace to the centre line gives Alcaraz the game.
Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic 1-4 Carlos Alcaraz* - BREAK
14:38
Mike Jones
A passing backhand winner from Alcaraz beats Djokovic’s approach to the net. That option hasn’t worked for the 24x Grand Slam champion.
Alcaraz has certainly settled quicker. He takes on a second serve from Djokovic and moves 0-30 up but a sharp serve in the next rally puts him on the defensive. Djokovic presses the advantage and forces an error but flinging down an ace to make the game level at 30-30.
An attempt to go down the line with a backhand clips the tape and offers up another break point for Alcaraz. Can he take it?
Yes! But it’s Djokovic at fault. He double faults the serve and Alcaraz has a double break in the first set.
Wimbledon 2024: *Novak Djokovic 1-3 Carlos Alcaraz
14:35
Mike Jones
What has been evident from these opening matches is that Carlos Alcaraz’s serve is on
