Clay to grass, no surface tension for champ Alcaraz

Spaniard's smooth switch from clay to grass stands out as he bids for 3rd straight Wimbledon crown

- Rutvick Mehta

MUMBAI: From among the many reels-worthy moments from this week's practice session between the 2024 men's finalists, one stood out. It not only brought out the maverick touch of the defending champion, but also summed up his hold on the surface.

Novak Djokovic served out wide. Carlos Alcaraz lunged to his right for a crisp return and immediately sprinted to his left. All through his run, he was just by the baseline as Djokovic moved in and hit a backhand to the open court. Except, Alcaraz was there, in that sweet blending spot of the baseline and singles sideline, to send down a cracking backhand passing winner on the run with both feet off the court.

Djokovic shrugged his shoulders. Alcaraz raised his arms and, in an apologetic afterthought, yelled out: "Sorry".

What for, Carlos? For that ridiculously good passing shot? Or for outwitting again, like in the last two Wimbledon finals, a seven-time champion on that court? Or for flaunting, on a surface that was alien to him just four years ago, a 91% win record?