Novak Djokovic blasts own performance after losing Wimbledon final to Carlos Alcaraz - 'Wasn't up to par'
Novak Djokovic has spoken out after losing to Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's Wimbledon final
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Novak Djokovic has blasted his own performance after losing the Wimbledon final to Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday.
The Serb had entered the showdown looking to win a stunning 25th Grand Slam title of his career.
But Djokovic was out of sorts and crashed to defeat in London, with Alcaraz winning 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 to claim a fourth major of his career.
After his defeat, Djokovic fronted up and accepted he wasn't 'up to par' during the showdown - congratulating Alcaraz in the process.
Novak Djokovic has blasted his own performance after losing the Wimbledon final to Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday.
GETTY
“He was definitely very hot today," the 37-year-old said when asked about his opponent.
“Obviously not the result I wanted, especially in the first couple of sets.
"I wasn’t up to par but credit to Carlos. I tried to push him and save the three match points to extend the match a little bit longer. But he was the deserved winner today.”
Djokovic played at Wimbledon just 37 days after undergoing knee surgery.
He says he's proud to have made the final, despite clearly not being able to operate at the peak of his powers.
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“I have to be very proud," added the veteran.
“Obviously there’s disappointment right now but when I reflect on the last four to five weeks, what I’ve been through [with the knee surgery], I’m very satisfied.
"I try to remind myself sometimes of how surreal it is being here; being really blessed to fight for the trophy.
"Every time I step on the court it feels like the first time. I’m a child living a childhood dream."
Djokovic's wife, Jelena, was in attendance to watch the match - along with the couple's two children.
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He sent a message to his family, saying: “To my wife I love you. To my wonderful children thank you for bringing the smile to my face every single day.
"I’m so thankful to be a father of two little angels who love tennis.
"I don’t know if I have the nerves to have a coaching career with my son; but if you really wish to pursue it I’ll be there for you.
“Enough talking. I just want to say thanks to my whole team, for sticking with me through good and bad times.
"I love you guys, thanks for being in my corner, let’s keep this going.”
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Novak Djokovic has hailed Carlos Alcaraz after losing Sunday's Wimbledon final
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As for Alcaraz, the 21-year-old now has four Grand Slam titles to his name.
And he was delighted at winning his latest major, saying on Centre Court: “Honestly it’s a dream for me winning this trophy.
“It’s a great feeling to play on this beautiful court and trophy. It’s the most beautiful tournament."
The youngster also sent a classy message to Djokovic, too.
“I’m so nervous doing this speech I forget to mention Novak and his team," he said.
Novak Djokovic congratulated Carlos Alcaraz on his Wimbledon win after being ruthlessly put to the sword
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"You guys have done unbelievable work after having surgery, making the final.
"And my team … all the support, every day, every week, it’s unbelievable to have you there. Hopefully we are going to have more times like this."