In the pair’s mouth-watering last-eight encounter on Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic had held his serve in the opening game, and was up 0-30 in Alcaraz’s opening service game.
The Spaniard cracked a serve out wide that Djokovic scrambled to get back, and he followed it up with a forehand approach shot down the line, which Djokovic did superbly well to deflect back and turn into a full-on passing shot attempt.
This time it was Alcaraz’s turn to get down low, and he showed outstanding hands to divert the ball back onto the Serb’s side with an outstanding drop-volley.
“That’s ridiculous!” Eurosport commentator Naomi Cavaday exclaimed as Djokovic applauded the world No. 3’s brilliance.
“Outrageous get. That’ll get him going.”
Tim Henman, on co-commentary, commended the athleticism and the panache of Alcaraz, not only to get down to the ball, but have the control to play such an elegant drop shot.
Watch raucous scenes as Djokovic and Alcaraz walk out for blockbuster quarter-final
Video credit: Eurosport
“Ninety-nine times out of 100, Djokovic wins this point,” Henman said.
“It’s the athletic ability of not only getting to the ball, but keeping control in the volley at full stretch. Huge save. Recognised by Djokovic.”
However, Alcaraz’s efforts went unrewarded, as he couldn’t stop the 10-time champion from breaking him at the first time of asking.
He managed to respond superbly to break straight back, though, and ensure that the match was on-serve as they went for the changeover. He then went on to claim the opening set.
‘Unbelievable match-up’ – McEnroe pumped for Alcaraz v Djokovic showdown
Video credit: Eurosport
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