Carlos Alcaraz feels like he “let the Spanish down” after losing to Novak Djokovic in 2024 Paris Olympics final

Spanish tennis Carlos Alcaraz was in tears after he lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2024 Paris Olympics final. The 21-year-old, who clinched the Roland Garros title at the same venue two months back, could not repeat his heroics in the Games final. Alcaraz lost in straight sets despite fighting for every point. After the defeat, he was in tears because he felt that he had let his country down.

Alcaraz was sobbing like a kid while his opponent had tears of joy. He broke down multiple times during interviews as well. Later, in the post-match press conference, the four-time Grand Slam champion revealed that he felt dejected after the defeat. He said that he always wanted to bring an Olympic gold for his nation and was disappointed that he could not do so.

I was emotional because, in a way, I felt like I had let the Spanish down. Bringing an Olympic gold medal to Spain is something I have wanted since I started playing tennis. I wouldn't say that I had more pressure, but it was a different pressure. All of Spain expected me to win the Olympic title. I put pressure on myself for that. 

Carlos Alcaraz said

Notably, the youngster entered the tournament as an outright favorite for gold. He looked on course to do so, before running into a resilient Djokovic.

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Carlos Alcaraz explains why he lost in the Olympic final

Carlos Alcaraz said that he was not able to play his best tennis Novak Djokovic in the Paris Olympic final. He felt that he could not handle the pressure situations well, which might have played a part in his defeat.

I have played four Grand Slam finals where I had difficult moments that I was able to overcome. Today was different than when I play for myself. If I compare it to other tournaments, I did not manage to play my best, while Novak did.

Carlos Alcaraz said in the post-match press conference

The Spaniard could not play his best tennis only because his opponent did not allow him to. Unlike the Wimbledon final, where Djokovic was rushing for points, the Serbian took his time before going for the big forehands and winners.

For example, in the fifth game of the first set tiebreaker, the two players engaged in a long rally with Djokovic making Alcaraz run across the court. In the end, the 37-year-old landed a calculated cross-court forehand for the winner.

In case you missed!

• “I leave with an incredible silver,” Gracious in defeat, Carlos Alcaraz leaves Paris with his ‘head held high’
• Carlos Alcaraz breaks down in tears after heartbreaking defeat to Novak Djokovic at Paris Olympics’ gold medal match

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