In the second set, the Serb survived match point before winning 5-7 7-6 (9-7) 7-6 (7-4).

During last month’s Wimbledon final, top seed Alcaraz defeated Djokovic in five sets.

I feel a little like when I was facing [Rafael] Nadal when we were at our best,” Djokovic said.

In my life, I haven’t played too many matches like this.”

In 2012, Djokovic defeated Rafael Nadal in five hours and 53 minutes in the Australian Open final.

It’s amazing to be able to experience that with him on the court. Every single point, every single shot, regardless of the conditions, is an effort.

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After beating Alcaraz in the semifinals of the French Open, the world number two moved ahead of Nadal in the all-time men’s major list.

Over the past 17 years, Djokovic and Nadal have played 59 times, while Alcaraz has played just four matches against Djokovic.

The 20-year-old Alcaraz was tearful after the Ohio loss on Sunday, saying, “It’s amazing to play against you, share the court with you, and learn from you.”

“I learned a lot from a champion like you, so congratulations to you and your team.”

Having missed match point in the second-set tie-break, Alcaraz found himself 5-3 down in the third, but he saved two match points to draw even at 5-4 before breaking Djokovic’s serve.

In the tie-break, Djokovic took a 5-4 lead on Alcaraz’s serve before winning the next two points to win in three hours and 49 minutes – the longest best-of-three-sets final in ATP Tour history.

“This rivalry just keeps getting better,” Djokovic said. I have a lot of respect for him. For such a young player to show such poise at such a critical time is impressive.

Three sets today, but almost four hours. You have to give him credit. He plays so maturely, handles the pressure so well for a 20-year-old.

It’s hard to forget how young he is. That’s so impressive.”

In the US Open next week, Alcaraz will try to defend his title, while Djokovic returns after missing last year’s tournament due to his Covid vaccination status.