Carlos Alcaraz explains what his relationship with Novak Djokovic is really like after opening US Open win

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Carlos Alcaraz has described the relationship he has with rival Novak Djokovic.

The Serbian’s careeer is remembered predominantly for his rivalries with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer which include some of the greatest matches of all time.

But since Alcaraz’s rise to superstardom began in 2022 he has commenced his own series of epic battles with Djokovic on the biggest stage.

The presence of Novak Djokovic has certainly helped Carlos Alcaraz to raise his game and the same can be said for the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

How did Carlos Alcaraz describe his relationship with Novak Djokovic?

Alcaraz is one of the most beloved players on tour not just by fans but also his fellow players.

He brings such passion and joy to the court and he stays incredibly humble while being one of the gifted and talented players in tennis history.

This resonates with his peers, including Djokovic, who has praised Alcaraz on multiple occasions and the pair have a solid friendship.

“We have a good rivalry. Every time we step on the court we play really high tennis. Every time we face each other has been a really good and intense match,” Alcaraz told reporters.

“We have a really good friendship off the court. We talk a lot in the locker room every time we see each other around, with his team as well.

“Once we step on the court there are no friends here on court, but after that I have a really good relationship with a lot of players and one of those is Novak.”

When can Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic play each other at the US Open?

Alcaraz and Djokovic are both competing at the ongoing US Open and they have safely made it through to round two.

The 21-year-old defeated qualifier Li Tu in four sets to begin his campaign at Flushing Meadows, while Djokovic defeated Radu Albot in straight sets to commence his title defence.

The French Open and Wimbledon champion is seeded third at this year’s US Open, while Djokovic is seeded second.

The pair were placed in opposite slides of the draw, meaning they will not be able to face one another in New York for the first time until the final.