Djokovic: “Too bad for Carlos, I have unlimited respect for his performance”

Following his 3-1 set win over the ‘captive’ Alcarath and qualifying for the Roland Garros final, Novak Djokovic praised the Spaniard and his talent while also discussing his efforts to stay in the game despite his injury.

“First of all I have to say that Carlos was unlucky at this level. The last thing you want is cramps and I’m sorry about that, I hope he gets back to good form soon. I told him at net that he knows.” Young as he is, he will win the tournament many times, he is competitive, he deserves a round of applause.

It’s hard for him not knowing whether to continue the game or give up. Towards the end of the second set we were both at our physical limits. It was going to be a close game, but after the cramps it was a different game. I tried to stay focused. I didn’t want to think about it. I have great respect for Alkarath and wish him a speedy return.”

On the intensity he had in his game:

“It’s not easy to maintain this intensity. I played well in the first set and a half, towards the end of the second set he played better. I had to play aggressively, if not he would be. He likes this style, fast with hard hits. It was a battle in the first two sets and I’m happy to reach another final at Roland Garros.”

To the final:

“It’s not over yet, we have one game left, I’m in a position where I’m living a dream. I love playing here and I always had a dream to play here and in another final.”