In a highly anticipated showdown, Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz are preparing to clash in the semi-finals of the French Open 2023. This will mark their first meeting in a Grand Slam, having previously faced each other only once at the 2022 Madrid Open.
The men’s semi-finals will take place at the iconic Roland Garros stadium in Paris on Friday, 9 June, starting from 14:00 BST. Tennis enthusiasts can catch the action through live text and radio commentary on various platforms, including BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, the Sport News Center website, and the app. The coverage begins at 13:45, followed by the match between Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev, scheduled not before 16:30.
The much-anticipated clash between Djokovic and Alcaraz has been a topic of discussion ever since the French Open draw was announced. Djokovic, a 22-time Grand Slam champion from Serbia, and Alcaraz, the Spanish world number one, are both in exceptional form, despite being at different stages of their careers.
At 36 years old, Djokovic is vying for his third French Open title and aiming to secure a record-breaking 23rd major. Alcaraz, on the other hand, is only 20 years old but already claimed his first Grand Slam title at the US Open in September. This will be his maiden semi-final appearance on the clay courts of Roland Garros.
“There has been great anticipation for this match, and I’m looking forward to it,” expressed Djokovic. “It’s the kind of match that a lot of people want to see. He’s definitely a guy to beat here.”
Alcaraz shared his excitement about the match, stating, “Since the draw was announced, everyone has been expecting this match, myself included. I’ve really been looking forward to playing against Djokovic.”
Both players were considered top contenders for the French Open title, even before Rafael Nadal, a 14-time champion, withdrew due to a hip injury. The winner of this thrilling semi-final will be the favorite to triumph in the final, where they will face the victor of the other semi-final clash between Casper Ruud, the Norwegian fourth seed, and Alexander Zverev, the German 22nd seed.
The tennis world has eagerly awaited this duel, which became a reality when Djokovic and Alcaraz landed in the same half of the draw. Djokovic’s recent injury issues led to his third seeding in Paris, increasing the likelihood of a semi-final encounter with Alcaraz. Both players have displayed exceptional form throughout the tournament, having dropped only one set each.
Despite the vast difference in their career experience, with Djokovic appearing in his 45th major semi-final, while Alcaraz is in just his second, the young Spanish player remains unfazed. Alcaraz, who turned 20 in May, hopes to rely on his youth and form rather than be deterred by Djokovic’s pedigree.
This clash carries additional significance as the world number one ranking hangs in the balance. A victory for Alcaraz would solidify his position at the top, while Djokovic needs to win the tournament to reclaim the coveted ranking.
As the stage is set for this captivating semi-final, fans eagerly await the outcome of the match that has captured the attention of the tennis world.
(Note: The last two paragraphs of the original text are unrelated and have been omitted in this rewrite.)
