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| Novak Djokovic (Matthew Stockman/Getty Images/AFP pic) |
In an astonishing finale, Novak Djokovic saved a championship point to secure a remarkable victory over Carlos Alcaraz at the Cincinnati final. The three-set thriller is being hailed as one of the greatest matches in ATP Masters 1000 history.
Djokovic, 36, fought back from a set and a break down against the world number one, saving a championship point at 5/6 in the second-set tie-break. Ultimately, he clinched a 5-7, 7-6(7), 7-6(4) win after an intense three hours and 49 minutes of play. Notably, this was the longest best-of-three final in ATP Tour history since 1990.
After sealing the victory, Djokovic collapsed on his back and tearfully ripped off his shirt, displaying his overwhelming joy. The win marked his third title in Cincinnati and was particularly satisfying after losing to Alcaraz in last month's Wimbledon final.
Describing the match as one of the most thrilling he has ever played, Djokovic compared it to a Grand Slam encounter. The victory also made Djokovic the oldest man to win the Cincinnati Championship, at 36 years old.
Alcaraz, despite displaying impressive stamina throughout the week, could not seal the deal in the crucial moments. A poor service game while leading 4-3 in the second set handed Djokovic a lifeline, and the Serbian player capitalized on the opportunity. Alcaraz also suffered a moment of frustration during a medical timeout after hitting his hand against a drinks container.
In a gripping decider, Djokovic broke Alcaraz's serve to take a 4-3 lead but then faltered when serving for the match at 5-3. Alcaraz fought back, saving multiple match points and breaking serve to level at 5-5. Ultimately, the match went to a tiebreak, which Djokovic won when Alcaraz's forehand return went wide.
With this win, Djokovic secured his 95th career title and 39th Masters 1000 crown. During the post-match presentation, Djokovic commented on Alcaraz's perseverance and expressed his desire to meet him again at the upcoming US Open.
The Cincinnati victory provides Djokovic with a significant confidence boost as he prepares for the US Open, which kicks off on August 28. Alcaraz, as the defending champion, remains the top seed heading into the tournament and has vowed to make a strong comeback.
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