Carlos Alcaraz, the 22-year-old World No. 2, delivered a bold warning to Novak Djokovic ahead of their blockbuster US Open 2025 semifinal clash on September 5, 2025, at Arthur Ashe Stadium. After dismantling Jiri Lehecka 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 in the quarterfinals on September 2, 2025, without dropping a set, Alcaraz spoke with steely resolve, acknowledging Djokovic’s “great” form but vowing to seek “revenge” for past defeats. “We all know Novak’s games. It doesn’t matter that he’s been out of the tour since Wimbledon; he’s playing great matches here. I know he’s hungry… I really want to revenge,” Alcaraz said, per *TennisWorldUSA* and *Republic World*. This sets the stage for their ninth career meeting, with Djokovic leading 5-3, including wins in the 2025 Australian Open quarterfinals and 2024 Olympic final.
Alcaraz’s warning is fueled by a painful history against Djokovic, particularly their 2025 Australian Open clash, where Djokovic rallied from a set down to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4, despite an injury, as noted by *EssentiallySports*. Alcaraz described facing Djokovic in Grand Slams as “the worst thing,” highlighting the mental toll of their encounters. Yet, his flawless US Open run—losing serve only once in five matches—signals peak form. His quarterfinal performance featured 28 winners and no break points faced, per *Reuters*, showcasing the explosive shot-making that thrilled fans with a behind-the-back shot earlier in the tournament.
Djokovic, chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title, responded cautiously, praising Alcaraz as “a spectacle” and acknowledging the unique challenge of their first US Open meeting. “The conditions here are different from Australia… I know my best tennis is required,” he said, per *Olympics.com*. The 38-year-old Serbian, who battled past Taylor Fritz 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, has reached his 14th US Open semifinal, tying Jimmy Connors’ record, per *ATP Tour*. Despite Fritz’s coach labeling his play “atrocious,” Djokovic’s 11-0 record against the American and clutch play, saving 11 of 13 break points, underline his resilience.
Alcaraz’s hunger for revenge is tempered by his focus on enjoying the moment, telling *Sky Sports*, “I’m here to entertain.” With a potential World No. 1 ranking at stake if he wins the title, per *Reuters*, Alcaraz aims to avoid overthinking, saying, “If I think about the No. 1 spot too much, I’ll put pressure on myself.” As the generational rivalry reignites, Alcaraz’s warning sets up a high-stakes showdown with Djokovic, who aims to disrupt a potential Alcaraz-Sinner final, per *Aljazeera.com*.
