So much needed to go right for Djokovic to even get the possibility to play within the Wimbledon final against Alcaraz 39 days after undergoing meniscus surgery on his right knee. In the tip, it was perhaps too good as he was attempting to get back into shape.
Djokovic was lucky not only because he drew a qualifier and a wildcard in the primary two rounds, but in addition because Alcaraz and world primary Jannik Sinner ended up on the opposite side of the draw. He then played against Alexei Popyrin, who had little centre court experience, and an out-of-form Holger Rune.
His next opponent seemed to be a formidable challenge – Alex de Minaur, one other Australian, a grass-court lover and, most significantly, a top-10 player with the wheels and engine to last all day. De Minaur even showed his newfound power to maintain up with Djokovic when he shifts up the gears.
But De Minaur tore his hip cartilage and withdrew, giving Djokovic more rest before playing Alcaraz, who was five levels tougher. By the time he got his level back to the extent needed to compete with Alcaraz, Djokovic was already two sets behind.
So different. Too different. Everything had gone right – although he only needed a little bit adversity on the pitch to be ready for this ultimate test.
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Analysis of the Wimbledon final: Carlos Alcaraz beats Novak Djokovic to win his second Wimbledon title
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