Novak Djokovic makes bold statement about Alcaraz’s level compared to Nadal, Federer, and himself

There’s no debate—the “Big Three” of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer have set an unmatched standard in tennis history. With the most Grand Slam titles between them and countless records that seem untouchable, they are often regarded as the pinnacle of the sport. However, Djokovic, who leads the trio with 24 Grand Slam titles, believes Carlos Alcaraz is already playing at their level.

The 21-year-old Spanish sensation has already secured four Grand Slam titles—two at Wimbledon, one at the U.S. Open, and one at Roland Garros—and made history as the youngest player to reach World No. 1 in the ATP Rankings at just 19.

During a press conference at the Madrid Masters, Djokovic shared his view that Alcaraz has achieved more by this age than any of the “Big Three” did at a comparable stage.

“He has already reached the tennis level,” Djokovic said when asked about Alcaraz’s ability to match the all-time greats. “With the results at this age, it can be said that he has accomplished more than any of us (Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal) did at that age. But he has a career ahead of him and plenty of time; he has everything needed to make history, to become the greatest in our sport”.

Wimbledon 2024 Gentlemen’s Singles champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain poses for a photograph with the trophy. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Djokovic won his first Grand Slam title at age 20, claiming the 2008 Australian Open after defeating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. Nadal’s breakthrough came even earlier, at 19, when he captured the 2005 Roland Garros title. Federer, meanwhile, claimed his first major at Wimbledon in 2003 at the age of 21. Alcaraz, however, has raised the bar by clinching four Grand Slam titles before turning 22.

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Comparing the ‘Big Three’ dominance to Alcaraz’s start

Djokovic acknowledged that each member of the “Big Three” dominated specific surfaces during their primes but emphasized that their most dominant stretch typically began after age 23. In contrast, Alcaraz is already establishing himself as a dominant force before turning 22.

“Yes, there was dominance—obviously, Rafa on clay, or Roger on grass; I was winning on hard courts, going three or four years in a row at Indian Wells, Miami, one after another,” Djokovic reflected. “But for me, personally, that level of dominant tennis and achievements came after I turned 23. So, between 23 and 33 was when it really happened”.

“Now, Carlos is not even 23 yet. We have to remember his age and what he has achieved—it’s not normal,” Djokovic added. “I’m sure we’ll see him on big stages with trophies for the next 10 or 15 years, as long as he keeps playing”.

Djokovic on Alcaraz’s Madrid Open withdrawal

Recently, Alcaraz announced his withdrawal from the Madrid Masters due to an adductor injury sustained during his Barcelona Open final loss to Denmark’s Holger Rune.

Djokovic addressed Alcaraz’s absence, calling it a loss for the tournament. “His withdrawal is not good news for the tournament. Carlos has been the No. 1 star here over the last 2-3 years,” Djokovic said.

“The Spanish crowd gives him so much energy, but physically, it’s normal for him to face challenges. He won Monte Carlo and, two days later, was playing in Barcelona,” Djokovic continued. “We hope to provide great tennis for the fans, even without Alcaraz”.