Alcaraz defeats Djokovic in straight sets, marches into US Open final
Carlos Alcaraz settled a score with Novak Djokovic on Friday, advancing to the US Open final with a masterful straight-sets victory
Carlos Alcaraz, US Open 2025 | © Antoine Couvercelle for MTG
Carlos Alcaraz delivered a stunning performance under the lights of Arthur-Ashe Stadium on Friday, September 5, 2025, defeating four-time champion Novak Djokovic in a decisive 6-4, 7-6, 6-2 victory to advance to the US Open final. The win, which came with a final score that belied the hard-fought battle of the first two sets, marks the first time in his career that Alcaraz has reached a Grand Slam final without dropping a set and his second appearance at this level in New York after 2022.
This was a highly anticipated ninth career meeting between the two rivals, and their first at the US Open, completing the full Grand Slam set of their head-to-head history. The match was a collision of generations and narratives, with the 22-year-old Alcaraz leading the ATP Tour with 59 wins and six titles this season, and the 38-year-old Djokovic aiming to become the oldest Grand Slam finalist in 50 years while also pursuing a record 25th major title. For Alcaraz, who entered the match with a stated desire for “revenge” after recent losses to Djokovic at the 2025 Australian Open and the 2024 Paris Olympics, the victory was a sweet redemption.
No wasted time by Alcaraz
Alcaraz wasted no time setting the tone, breaking Djokovic in the very first game of the match. While he had a chance to extend his lead to 3-0, he was unable to capitalize, but the early break was all he needed. Despite a low 61% first-serve percentage and 13 unforced errors, the Spaniard held firm and did not face a single break point, serving out the set with confidence to claim it 6-4.
The second set began with a vintage show of resilience from Djokovic, who came out firing to take a commanding 3-0 lead. But just as quickly, Alcaraz clawed his way back, showcasing a new level of maturity and a breathtaking array of shots. He tied the set at 3-3 with a magnificent slice forehand, a shot reminiscent of Roger Federer. The set was a back-and-forth battle of wills, forcing a tie-break. In the decisive moments, Alcaraz’s serve proved to be the difference. He won the tie-break 7-6, hitting great first serves at crucial moments to get the job done. The loss was a tough blow for Djokovic, who had fought valiantly but ultimately couldn’t convert his opportunities.
The third set was too much for Novak
The physicality of the match seemed to take its toll on Djokovic in the third set. After going down 2-1, he lost his serve in a game where he committed two double faults, and visibly appeared to be tired and turned off from the contest. He called for the physio for a shoulder injury, a clear sign that the younger Alcaraz’s relentless pace was proving too much. Alcaraz was clinical in closing out the match, capitalizing on a tiring Djokovic and securing a final break of serve with ease to win the set 6-2 and seal the victory.
The final stats paint a clear picture of Alcaraz’s dominance. He hit 31 winners to Djokovic’s 15, and won 84% of his first-serve points compared to Djokovic’s 66%. Alcaraz also proved to be the more clinical player on break points, converting four chances to Djokovic’s one. The victory is another major milestone for Alcaraz, who continues his record-breaking season, highlighted by his seven-consecutive finals streak since the start of April this year, and a French Open final loss and a Wimbledon final loss.
