French Open: Novak Djokovic wins wild point despite being 'behind the umpire' against Carlos Alcaraz
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Updated 09/06/2023 at 15:38 GMT
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic produced some outrageous tennis in their highly anticipated semi-final clash at the 2023 French Open on Friday afternoon, and it was the Serb that received a standing ovation first in an "absolutely outstanding" rally in the fourth game. With Alcaraz serving, Djokovic was able to stamp his authority on the match with a break of serve in inspired fashion.
Djokovic breaks Alcaraz in 'sensational' rally after being 'behind the umpire'
Novak Djokovic had the crowd on their feet as he won a wild point that saw him pushed "behind the umpire" against Carlos Alcaraz in their blockbuster semi-final at the French Open.
Alcaraz received a standing ovation himself for a truly incredible scoop shot in the second set that left his opponent laughing and applauding in apparent disbelief at what was produced at Roland-Garros.
But Djokovic managed to have his moment too as he came out on top in a brilliant rally - one of many in the pulsating encounter - to break the Spaniard's serve early in the opening set when leading 2-1.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion took the initiative at first as he drew Alcaraz to the net with a crafty drop shot, but he was then pushed outwide to play his next shot from a ridiculous angle.
Indeed, as John McEnroe commented on Eurosport, he found himself "behind the umpire" during the rally as he retrieved the ball from Alcaraz and somehow managed to get it back in play.
With a stunning flick down the line and a volley at the net to seal the point, Djokovic delighted the crowd and stamped his authority on the match early on with the first break of the match.
Alcaraz surely topped it with his unbelievable shot in the second set, which you can see below, but make up your own mind as you watch both efforts...
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'Beyond belief!' - Alcaraz leaves Djokovic laughing and applauding with 'unreal' winner
While Djokovic is aiming for an outright record 23rd Grand Slam singles title and third crown in Paris, Alcaraz is seeking his maiden triumph at Roland-Garros after having won his first major at the US Open last year.
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