Novak Djokovic: My fights with Carlos Alcaras remind me of the rivalry with Rafael Nadal

Novak Djokovic rips his shirt off as he celebrates his epic victory over Carlos Alcaraz. Credit: The Enquirer/Karim Elgazzar

Novak Djokovic said his rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz was similar to the one he shared with fellow Spaniard Rafa Nadal after it took him nearly four hours to outlive the 20-year-old No. 1 world in the epic Cincinnati Open final on Sunday.

In a thrilling Wimbledon rematch, Djokovic saved match point before avenging his loss with a 5-7, 7-6, 7-6 triumph in three hours and 49 minutes — the longest three-set final in the ATP. tour history.

The seasoned Serbian compared it to the 2012 Australian Open final, when he beat Nadal in five hours and 53 minutes. The pair share a legendary rivalry over the past 15 years and have met each other 59 times.

“I don't think I've played too many of those matches in my life,” said Djokovic, 36. . “Maybe I can compare it to the final against Nadal at the 2012 Australian Open.

“Obviously three sets today, but almost four hours. You just have to take your hat off to this guy. He plays so mature, handles the pressure so well for a 20 year old.

“We can't forget how young he is. That's what's so impressive about him.»

Djokovic (right) and Carlos Alcaraz show off their trophies after the final in Cincinnati . Photo: Getty Images/Matthew Stockman

Sunday's meeting was the fourth between Djokovic and Alcaraz, in which each player won two meetings. Djokovic beat Alcaraz in the semi-finals of the French Open and the Spaniard got revenge in a memorable five-set Wimbledon final.

“The feeling I get on the court reminds me a bit of when I was against Nadal when we were in their prime,” added Djokovic, who overtook the Spaniard in the list of the best men of all time after winning his 23rd crown at Roland Garros.

“Every point is a hustle. Each point is a battle. You must earn every point, every hit, no matter the conditions. It's amazing to be able to experience it with him on the court.»

Next for both players is the US Open where Alcaraz will defend his title when the tournament kicks off on August 28.

«Good to hear such from Novak [who] played iconic matches, legendary matches,» Alcaraz said. «It means that the team and I are doing a great job, we are on the right track.»