Carlos Alcaraz has the opportunity to overtake Novak Djokovic in the world rankings ahead of the 2024 US Open later this month.
Their rivalry has been tennis’ biggest talking point in recent years as they have had numerous thrilling encounters across all three surfaces.
Indeed, Alcaraz beat Djokovic at the past two Wimbledon finals, while the latter recently overcame the former at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Many had written the Serbian off before the match, believing that the Spaniard would win the gold medal in a one-sided contest.
However, Djokovic proved that there remains little between them and tennis fans are now looking forward to their next battle.
Both players will compete at the US Open, where their respective seedings are yet to be decided. The Tennis Gazette looks at how their world rankings could change as early as next week.
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Carlos Alcaraz vs Novak Djokovic world ranking
Both players passed up the Canadian Open in Montreal this week after the Olympics but Alcaraz is playing at the Cincinnati Open next week.
While Djokovic will continue to rest ahead of the US Open, the Spaniard will be looking to add to his 15 ATP Tour titles.
This could have ramifications in terms of the world rankings, in which Djokovic is currently ranked second and Alcaraz third.
If the 21-year-old reaches the quarter-finals in Cincinnati, he will replace his rival as the number two player in the world.
This would also mean that he is the second seed at the US Open, resulting in a slightly easier draw.
However, should they both progress to the semi-finals, they would play against each other for a place in the final, with world number one Jannik Sinner – who missed the Olympics – potentially waiting for them.
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