Carlos Algarz beats Novak Djokovic in five-set thriller to win first Wimbledon title

CNN
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World No. 1 Carlos Algarz defeated defending champion Novak Djokovic in a thrilling five-set men’s final. Sunday His first win Wimbledon title.

The Spaniard prevailed after nearly five hours on Center Court, eventually winning 1-6 7-6 (8-6) 6-1 3-6 6-4, before hurling a tennis ball into the crowd and falling to the court in celebration.

The 20-year-old became the third youngest Wimbledon champion in the Open era and added a second major title to her tally after winning the US Open last year.

It was straight forward for Alcaraz, who was at the height of his powers against the greatest tennis player in history.

But in the end, Djokovic’s return attempt failed at the net to crown a new Wimbledon champion, and Alcaraz cemented his position as a leader of the game’s next generation.

“Well, it’s a dream come true for me,” Alcaraz said in his court interview. “For me, it’s unbelievable. Like I said, it’s a dream come true to play at these levels, it’s amazing for a 20-year-old boy, I didn’t expect to reach such situations so fast.

“I’m very proud of myself, and I’m proud of the team I have. The work we do every day to live this experience.”

It was the final match everyone wanted. The talented youngster has already won two majors this year against a veteran who was chasing history and winning Grand Slams for fun.

Many expected Alcaraz to come out all guns blazing. The 36-year-old defending champion was on the back foot early on as he faced a break point in the opening game; Djokovic is best known for watching him from danger.

In tough conditions, Djokovic piled the pressure back on the Spaniard in the next game, racing to a 40-0 lead and three break points. Djokovic was asked to land the first haymaker of the final for the third time.

Every rally was filled with beautiful displays, from skillful drop shots to powerful winners. BBC commentator Andrew Castle reminded viewers that what they were watching was “real” and not a “computer game”.

With the wind swirling and the eyes of the sporting world on center court, it was the experienced Serbian who took the first set, breaking Algaraz for the second time to take a 5-0 lead to seal proceedings.

It wasn’t that Algaraz played particularly badly – as he showed with his excellent forehand to win his first game – Djokovic was almost unplayable at times. Whatever Algaraz threw at him, Djokovic had an answer – he had just two unforced errors in the first set and took it in 34 minutes.

More to follow.