'He always gives players their due': Djokovic praised for humble reaction after US Open loss to Alcaraz

Novak Djokovic could not make it to the US Open final this year after losing to Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets 6-4, 7-6, 6-2 on Saturday, September 6. This was another painful exit for the 38-year-old Serbian, who has now lost in the semifinals of all four Grand Slams in 2025.

Djokovic is still chasing his record 25th major title, which would put him above Margaret Court’s all-time record. However, he will have to wait longer for the record after suffering heartbreak in the US Open semifinal against Alcaraz.

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Meanwhile, tennis legend John McEnroe praised Djokovic’s attitude after the loss, saying the Serbian always shows respect to his opponents. “He doesn’t lose much, but he’s always been gracious enough when he does. He always gives the players their due. But this is an incredible challenger [Alcaraz],” McEnroe told ESPN.

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Djokovic fought hard but said he ran out of energy after the second set against Alcaraz. The veteran explained that best-of-five matches are becoming tougher for him against younger players. He also praised Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner for their recent performances and the way they have emerged as the next big forces in tennis.

“It’s never fun losing a tennis match, but at the same time, if I’m to lose to someone, I would lose to these two guys. I know that they are just better at the moment. You just have to hand it to them and say, ‘Well done,’” Djokovic said.

“I lost three out of four Slams in semis against these guys, so they’re just too good, playing on a really high level. Unfortunately, I ran out of gas after the second set [against Alacaraz]. I think I had enough energy to battle him and to keep up with his rhythm for two sets. After that I was gassed out, and he kept going,” he added.

Alcaraz will now face world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the 2025 US Open final on Sunday, September 7. This will be their third Grand Slam final of the year, showing how much they have dominated men’s tennis.