The 21-year-old Spaniard showcased immense resilience, battling through cramps and adversity to secure a historic win on the prestigious clay courts of Roland Garros.
Despite trailing 2-1 in sets, Alcaraz displayed unwavering determination, ultimately triumphing over Zverev with a final score of 6-3, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 after an intense four-hour and 19-minute showdown on Court Philippe Chatrier in Paris.
This remarkable achievement makes Alcaraz the youngest man in history to claim Grand Slam titles on all three surfaces.
Alcaraz’s victory marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, adding the Roland Garros crown to his Wimbledon triumph over Novak Djokovic the previous year and his 2022 US Open success.
With this win, he now sets his sights on the Australian Open, where he aims to become the youngest man ever to achieve the career Grand Slam.
For Zverev, the defeat prolongs his quest for a maiden major title. Despite a valiant effort, including a spirited performance in his previous Slam final against Dominic Thiem at the 2020 US Open, Zverev was unable to seize the moment.
Despite his disappointment, Zverev remains a formidable force in the tennis world, determined to fulfill his championship aspirations in the future.
Alcaraz’s triumph not only cements his place among tennis’s elite but also underscores Spain’s rich legacy in the sport, joining the ranks of his compatriots, including his idol Rafael Nadal, as a Roland Garros champion.
As he collapsed in disbelief on the clay, Alcaraz etched his name in the annals of tennis history, celebrating as the eighth Spanish player to claim victory at Roland Garros.
The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both players experiencing moments of brilliance and adversity. Alcaraz showcased his tenacity, bouncing back from early setbacks and demonstrating remarkable composure in critical moments.
Despite facing cramps and formidable opposition, he refused to yield, ultimately prevailing in a dramatic fashion that captivated fans worldwide.
As the tennis world reflects on this epic showdown, Alcaraz’s triumph serves as a testament to his talent, resilience, and unwavering determination.
With his sights set on future conquests, the young Spaniard has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of tennis, inspiring a new generation of players with his remarkable journey to the top.
(With AFP inputs)
