Just moments after Novak Djokovic stirred controversy with his public accusation that Carlos Alcaraz’s victory at the 2025 US Open was due to “luck” and favoritism from the ATP and the umpires, the young Spanish champion has finally broken his silence. In a statement that has sent ripples through the tennis community, Alcaraz addressed the claims head-on, leaving no doubt about where he stands.
The tension began shortly after the US Open final, when Djokovic, visibly frustrated after his loss, suggested that Alcaraz’s triumph was not entirely earned on merit. The Serbian legend hinted that officiating decisions and the ATP’s supposed bias towards younger stars had tilted the match in the Spaniard’s favor. His comments quickly went viral, sparking heated debates among fans, analysts, and fellow players.
For several days, Alcaraz refrained from commenting, choosing to celebrate his victory quietly with his team and family. However, the mounting speculation and the volume of Djokovic’s accusations became impossible to ignore. Earlier today, in a calm yet firm tone, Alcaraz spoke out. “I respect every player, especially Novak, for what they’ve achieved,” he began. “But my win was the result of hard work, preparation, and belief. Suggesting it was because of luck or favoritism is not only unfair to me—it’s unfair to the sport.”
Those present at the press conference noted that Alcaraz’s voice remained steady throughout, even as he addressed what many saw as a direct attack on his integrity. He went on to emphasize his respect for the game’s traditions and his belief that matches are won and lost on the court, not in backroom politics. “The US Open is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world. To question its fairness without evidence is to question the efforts of everyone involved—the players, the officials, and the fans who support us.”
Almost immediately after his remarks, social media lit up with reactions. Supporters praised Alcaraz for taking the high road and defending himself without resorting to personal insults. Critics, however, accused him of sidestepping certain points raised by Djokovic, particularly regarding controversial umpire calls in the final.
Meanwhile, sources close to Djokovic suggested that the 24-time Grand Slam champion had been taken aback by Alcaraz’s composed yet pointed response. While Djokovic has not issued any further statements, insiders believe he may now choose to let the matter rest—at least publicly.
Former players and commentators have been divided on the issue. Some agree with Djokovic that certain calls in the final were questionable, while others argue that such decisions are part of the sport and rarely change the overall outcome. “If you start attributing losses to luck or bias, you undermine your own achievements when you’ve benefited from the same factors in the past,” one retired champion remarked.
The ATP has remained silent on the controversy, neither confirming nor denying any of Djokovic’s claims. Tournament officials have also avoided making any official comments, likely in an effort to prevent the situation from escalating further. Still, the lack of a formal statement has done little to quell speculation.
For Alcaraz, this incident may prove to be a defining moment early in his career. By responding directly yet respectfully, he has demonstrated not only his competitive maturity but also his understanding of the importance of public perception in professional sports. Whether the dispute fades away or continues to cast a shadow over the remainder of the season remains to be seen.
As the tennis calendar moves forward, all eyes will be on both Alcaraz and Djokovic when they inevitably meet again on court. The tension between the two champions has added a fresh layer of intrigue to an already competitive season—one in which every rally, every set, and every handshake at the net will be scrutinized more closely than ever before.
