Flink on Alcaraz vs. Djokovic Final at Wimbledon 2023 | Monday Match Analysis

[@vincentvanwyk5522]

The only thing I disagree with is that flink always talks as if djokovic allows his opponents to win. All players make mistakes. And flink said, 'Carlos in the 5th was in a position he shouldn't have been in' after the break. Wow. How many times could we claim this of djokovic winning a match being in a position he shouldn't have been in. 2019 wimbledon final we could argue in the exact same manner.

[@monkeonthee]

Apalling that Gill Gross would entertain this.

[@Spacejuno]

@@monkeontheeyeah I mean gill is Mike’s better as an analyst and he’s like 3x younger than flunk.

[@molybdaenmornell123hopp5]

​@@monkeontheeDon't know whether he was polite or slow on the uptake or actually agreed.

[@tijgertjekonijnwordopgegeten]

@@molybdaenmornell123hopp5He was probably being polite and a good host by not completely disagreeing.

[@raghumanda2tanush496]

even alcaraz missed many break point opportunities because of his nervousness and useless fancy shots, but these experts dont talk about them because these guys predicted djokovic to win , so as their prediction became wrong they focus only on why their prediction became wrong rather than how alcaraz proved them wrong

[@kennyofatoboiyo7447]

I love how there is this general atttitude by people who followed the match that basically Djokovic beat himself because he missed a bunch of routine shots......Ok guys how many routine shots did Alcaraz also miss?? Lots he had a bunch of UEs as well. Carlos also basically gifted Novak the first set. No matter how you wanna look at this Carlos was just better look at the winners he had over double what Novak had. Carlos is just better right now

[@vivahernando1]

I agree. Alcaraz makes Novak more nervous and therefore more errors

[@aiylacarson]

Nole fans make every excuse for this guy. Like can’t we just say Carlos was simply the better player? It’s a fact. He was.

[@raghumanda2tanush496]

even alcaraz missed many break point opportunities because of his nervousness and useless fancy shots, but these experts dont talk about them because these guys predicted djokovic to win , so as their prediction became wrong they focus only on why their prediction became wrong rather than how alcaraz proved them wrong

[@veronicanicholls7132]

Carlos displayed body language of a ruthless champion. No one is gonna bully him out of a win. Carlos is astonishing! He has set the tennis world on fire. I believe Novak was shell shocked, at how quickly Carlos had adapted to grass. I hope Carlos will thrill us all for years to come. A big thank you to Nole for all the great tennis over the years.

[@emrazum]

The variety of Alcaraz's forehand was incredible in the final. Such a mixture of speeds, spins, angles, just a masterful showing particularly in that fifth set. Carlos has, without a doubt, the best forehand in the world right now. USO can't come soon enough

[@ZetaCheese]

I love how last year, many people nickpicked flaws in his forehand and backhand techniques. Yet he stuck to his guns and they both look amazing this year. Elite player, best fh itw for sure

[@robert111k]

But the don't you know the really important thing was Novak failing two shots?

[@michael8597]

@@ZetaCheese Success has many companions while failure is an orphan. If Alcaraz loses in US open then tongues will wag very differently. 😂😂😂😂😂

[@Fraudkovic]

​​@@michael8597 and if alcaraz wins us open you might as well give him novaks birth certificate and put a pacifier in novaks mouth 😂😂😂

[@michael8597]

@@Fraudkovic Novak is 36 and Alcaraz is 20 - you idiot. You guys make such a fuss over Novak beating a 37 year old at 2019 Wimbledon when he himself was 32, but totally ignore the age dynamics when he is playing Alcaraz.That shows how biased and prejudiced you people are. If Novak dominated a weak era after Federer and Nadal, the same logic will apply to Alcaraz winning this edition of Wimbledon as well. Let Alcaraz win US open and we can then talk. Till then don't build castlea in the air. His greatness can be talked when he wins about 10 slams and 15 masters titles. Even then, if those achievements translated for argument sake, he would have done only in a very weak era bereft of Novak, Nadal or Federer or Murray etc. 😂😂😂😂

[@586seven]

What's with the assumption that Alcaraz would have definitely lost those points in the tiebreak if Djokovic got those backhands in? It's still a neutral rally, and Alcaraz can still comfortably win the point. Sure, Novak made two unforced errors, but it's not a given that he wins those points if he doesn't make them. It's still 50/50.

[@Fraudkovic]

Exactly . Idk why Steve flink chooses to ignore this. His commentary seems very biased

[@luisendymion9080]

So true. And he's not the only one in the media. We all have our favorites and Nole's the GOAT. But this bias when you're supposed to be as impartial as possible. Implicit message being "Alcaraz didn't win, Nole lost". Surprising.

[@rublo1]

Yes, very surprised by flinks assessment. His whole assessment seem to centre on those 2 missed crucial moments in the match, nothing about how good carlitos was. I would even go on to say that even if he won that tiebreak and didn’t hit the drive volley in the net, if anyone can come back from 2 sets down or break him in the 5th, it’s Carlos. Everyone thought he couldn’t win against Novak in 5 sets he proved them wrong, who’s t say he will def lose if he lost those 2 points?!

[@luisendymion9080]

@@rublo1 Yes. And nothing on Carlitos own uncharacteristic mistakes

[@maxpowers4436]

Its bizzare these people follow tennis full time and know it takes two 2 tango. Only points you can say shit like that are match points. Anything can happen

[@armadyl1212]

Honestly I think part of the reason Djokovic made those tight erros is, no intentional disrespect to the rest of the players, but Djokovic just honestly hasn't felt that proper pressure against a player like Alcaraz for quite a long while, so the pressure here was definitely different compared to several of his recent slam finals.. Plus he knew it was Alcaraz on the other side of the net, he knew that he probably had to go up 2 sets to love to have a great chance to win, and knew that if it got to 1 set all, Alcaraz's chances would improve massively compared to if other players like tsitsipas, rublev, etc. got to 1 set all in a slam final against him. He absolutely would not have got tight in the tie break like that if it was against anyone else imo

[@Weityki]

It has nothing to do with Alcaraz ... Novak beated Federer in 3 wimby finals , he has a lot of expirience on this kind of matches .... He knew that its gonna be harder than with other players

[@maxpowers4436]

Not really

[@mercybwalya2389]

Armady, excellent analysis imo.

[@JameSongMaker]

@@Weitykievery match has two players, no player plays in isolation

[@naysayer1238]

@@kingnole4237 ? A spoof of the worst Novak fan in the world?

[@lizmu4449]

Carlitos was smiling!! he smile even in the 1st set..

[@robw74]

Not sure I agree with this analysis. You make out that it was mostly Djokovic’s errors that allowed Carlos to win but you seem to forget that he was often 0-30 up on many of Novaks service games even early on. Once Carlos settled I feel that he had the edge. I understand Djokovic missed 2 backhands on the tiebreak but Alcaraz also made unforced errors at crucial times particularly early on. In fact there would’ve been no tiebreak had Carlos kept his early break in the second set!

[@soheiladam7510]

but you can understand why they would say that cause Novak was the favorite to win so of course the analysis could be focused on him, but yes we should not neglect the other player effort and mistakes.

[@z1az285]

@@soheiladam7510 Not according to Watson (55% to Alcaraz) because it analyzed facts and metrics. Sure some matches may have introduced skew like the hurkacz match but overall Carlos returned better (41%) even against big servers like jarry and berretini

[@sravanabbaraju-sportstake75]

Well said. That's what I thought as well. Unforced errors are part of the game.

[@molybdaenmornell123hopp5]

I think there's confirmation bias in Flink's analysis. He sees Novak do better and thinks "Of course", then sees Alcaraz do better and thinks "Yeah, bound to happen now and then".

[@slXD100]

but that was the case, lol. Djokovic made too many unforced errors, if he played that way vs Hubi, he would've lost there already. It did take Novak to not play great for Alcaraz to win and idk why people have an issue with that.

[@josemanueld5413]

In my opinion this Flink guy says halfheartedly that he gives all credit to Carlos’ win but actually he does not. He insists once and again that a few key mistakes costed Djokovic to lose the match. But he doesn’t want to acknowledge that those mistakes were also due to Alcaraz being in front of him and, besides, Carlos also made some critical errors but nevertheless could recover and take the match.

[@rublo1]

Totally true. He’s a joke

[@grantmitchel]

He wasn't out rallying Carlos like he does with every other player

[@colethomas903]

Grant he was also coming to the net more then ever

[@Chris-bg4vi]

Alcaraz forehand is dynamic, changing pace and spin. The same for his service. His backhand got more reliable and he can now slice to counter being rush. Many improvements...

[@z1az285]

And not just any slice. It's knifing, low and he placed it deep or short depending on what the situation was. Very strategic play and great court awareness

[@thomsonmichael2661]

Gill, This is the second time I am hearing you ask this. "Do you remember a time where Djokovic's weakness in the overhead costed him...?" Go back to 2008 Olympics semifinal against Nadal. 2012 Wimbledon semi against Federer. 2012 US Open final against Murray. 2013 French semi against Rafa. He improved the overhead throughout the years. But it is a weakness that can be exploited. Carlos did just that in Sunday's final. 🤷‍♂️

[@ja-kl8rg]

Good point , but this wasn't really overhead it was awkward .

[@thomsonmichael2661]

@@ja-kl8rg awkward for Novak. But Rafa, Murray, Roger, and Alcaraz would have read the ball better to position themselves to hit an overhead.

[@ja-kl8rg]

​@@thomsonmichael2661it wasn't overhead nor volley , running back + wind

[@DavidRodriguez-yb1qb]

I am sorry, but I found this episode unfortunate (as many more people in the comments it seems). Way too much weight to 3 mistakes from Djokovic, but for example, somehow ignoring the fact that Alcaraz got twice the winners and about the same unforced errors than Djokovic, lots of those at important situations. Carlitos won this match more than Nole lost it. For example the female final is a clear example of somebody losing the final

[@raghumanda2tanush496]

many are taking credit away from carlos because those experts predicted novak to win the wimbledon even before grass season started, djokovic had made just 40 ue in 334 points match involving 18-20 m distance covered per point rallies , its just because he missed that bh in tb and fh in 5th set bp that does not mean he would have won if he had not missed them, even alcaraz screwed up many break points for unnecessarily going to fancy shots ,which no expert dares to talk about it as they have predicted novak before the tournament.

[@joshuaalfred8307]

Great discussion. However, Flint seems to discount the Alcaraz effect in causing Djokovic's uncharacteristic misses. Part of the reason why Djokovic handles pressure so well is because deep down he knows how much better he is than his typical opponents. Even when we lost the first 2 sets against Sinner in 2022, Djokovic losing did not seem likely. However, Alcaraz is a different beast. Djokovic's serve was under pressure constantly from Alcaraz. Also, Alcaraz can take control of a point at any moment, can win a point in multiple different ways, hits with power and margin, and gets balls back that would normally be winners for Novak (just like Novak does to everyone else). In the back of Djokovic's mind, even at his best, winning was not guaranteed and I believe this rattled him. He hasn't felt this pressure or played so strong a foe since Federer, Nadal, and peak Murray and Wawrinka. Add this factor to the significance of the moment - equalling Federer, calendar slam, Margaret Court record - and it's not surprise Djokovic got tight. We must not also forget Carlos' misses when he had break point against Novak. He missed more than a few makable rally balls. He ended up 5-19 (26%) which is very low. Granted Novak at 33% is not much better either. However, this plus the winners stat (66 to 40) does illustrate that the match was on Carlito's raquet. He bullied Novak in a way that Novak cannot to him - no wonder Novak was stressed!

[@brodssn]

I enjoy these shows but every single time Nole loses a final you have Flink on and all he harps on is how Nole lost the match instead of what his opponent did to win. He never does it the other way around and it’s bothersome. Love the videos Gil, keep it up.

[@molybdaenmornell123hopp5]

The wind hurt Novak more than Alcaraz? I clearly recall the comms saying early on that Novak deals with the wind better than almost anyone. I also recall them saying that the wind was largely gone in sets 4 and 5.

[@lsb9073]

Steve Flink: I disagree re: roof It's not about mere tradition; this is nonsense. It's about this is summer - it's not chucking it down, it's grass (which creates humidity with a closed roof and thus totally changes the court conditions) and yes, it's an outdoor tournament. This is WIMBLEDON! It's full of challenges - not a standard surface, irregular bounces, conditions change more depending on the weather, and yes, it's hard - and this is what makes it the greatest tournament in the world. Windy is part of it, sometimes its baking hot, sometimes it doesnt stop raining. The whole point is it's unpredictable, and you have to adapt. You want to start making it uniform and predictable?? No. No way. Next we'll be advocating artificial grass🙄. And after that heinous, unforgiveable decision to play the Wimbledon Final on a beautiful sunny day under the roof for reasons which still baffle and made NO sense; (if mid-match you can open roof or close it, then how was that decision logical?) then no way were the Committee going to cause that furore again. And if Roger & Rafa could play in a blizzard with sand in their eyes, then closing the roof for a bit of a breeze would be ridiculous. Please dont call this progressive - it's dumbing down to ease the way for those who cant adapt as well. Carlos played both sides of the court- he managed fine.

[@ja-kl8rg]

I love grass , but risk of sliping and hurting too high. I think Novak s sore leg was from slip in first set . Irregular bounces ...

[@lsb9073]

@@ja-kl8rg what's that got to do with playing a Final under a roof ? Grass. Like it or not, but adapt the footwork. Pulling up at the net, negotiating net posts & linesppl & advertising &etc furniture also causes falls. Carlos fell around the net a cpl times but dont think it was due to grass specifically. Djoko doesnt usually fall 5+ times in a match, but he was caught out and that's why he slipped. Carlos was running him ragged, rushing him stretching him. He's not been used to having to work this hard the past 5+ years (given Fedal out a fair bit with injuries since 2016). It unsettled him mightily -sumthing Gill & Steve failed to mention. He was flustered, gesticulating to his box a lot, out of sorts bcos Carlos was returning and delivering in ways he just hadnt had to deal with lately. Did he fall in the 4th set tho? I dont remember.

[@ja-kl8rg]

​@@lsb9073Well it's more slippery under roof , Carlos slipped too nearly ruined his knee. Yes Novak felt pressure from Carlos but also being unsettled by hecklers even when he served. Those people should be expelled from stadium .

[@trishennaidoo1309]

Alcaraz just put the whole ATP on notice, beating Novak on Grass at Wimbledon.

[@ghsense2626]

They were already on notice since last year

[@trishennaidoo1309]

@ghsense2626 yeah but this is just proof to that few people who think he not something special 😅 like you know we get a few of those.

[@ghsense2626]

@@trishennaidoo1309 He will win the next 10 slams, I can't see anyone stopping him. The scary thing is he's still green and he's improving every tournament he plays. All those weapons are going to get better and he'll add new things too

[@z1az285]

@@ghsense2626 He can still improve and that's the scary part. There is one thing he has to change for the Australian open night conditions. Less topspin, more depth. Pace won't be an issue for him, but his spin won't be effective in night matches. But his game is well positioned otherwise. And for all surfaces. He is like a AI model that adapts and improves the next time around.

[@colethomas903]

Zlaz the slower condition at night I think actually favor him because how is Novak gonna get hit through him that’s be very interesting

[@El_amigo_de_Sebas]

Hi Gill, I know that Novak missed two backhands in the 2nd set tiebreaker, as Steve commented. But, however, Alcaraz was actually one break up in the second set. Therefore, why not say that Alcaraz should have won the set before the tiebreak?

[@macarenasilva8556]

I just have to say that Carlitos WAS smiling during this match, not like Steve said that he was serious in the match....he was not!

[@JackieRobinsonM]

+1 he was truly enjoying it

[@incessantyoutuber9318]

+1

[@rublo1]

100%%% seriously this guy hates Carlos

[@andrewkwchew]

Novak’s overhead is a known weakness. Didn’t Boris Becker say Novak has the weakest overhead in the Top 100? Quite a number of times in the match Alcaraz managed to retrieve Novak’s overheads, and even a winner against Novak’s overhead once!

[@lsb9073]

He's cut out the Djokosmashes tho, much to my chagrin - used to love announcing those😂

[@zetristan4525]

Even the netpost, he did not manage to knock it down with his hammer.

[@mainemceachern1521]

@@lsb9073 Haha yes there are some great KZbin videos showcasing the inopportune supremacy of the DjokoSmash lol.

[@LegolasD]

You have to an overhead on that point. Maybe in women’s tennis you can hit a swing volley but to put it away in mens tennis at that position you have to hit an overhead. Not only can you hit it harder but you get a lot more angle on an overhead.

[@yanair2091]

It was true until last wimbledon or maybe somewhat later. Bat Novak really improved his overhead drastically. I don't think he needs better than that.

[@David-te9nq]

Alcaraz missed a volley that IMO should have been a winner down-the-line 9/10, which would have meant that Djokovic never got a set point. In that sense Djokovic was "lucky" to get that set point. Also, it's wrong to assume that Djokovic would have won the point 3/4 times if he didn't make the unforced error. Alcaraz won the majority of the points after all.

[@grantmitchel]

Its like not missing is important in tennis lol

[@molybdaenmornell123hopp5]

People are totally ignoring Alcaraz's mental strength here.

[@rodrigoodonsalcedocisneros9266]

​@@molybdaenmornell123hopp5Not necesarily, Djokovic was more nervous than usual (which it was shown in his UEs tally vs his usual performances). Even when he is tighter than usual, he ends up relaxing and winning. Alcaraz' credit comes in that he kept the pressure and missed even less than Nole, who even when nervous doesn't miss that much. Alcaraz' mental fortitude was amazing, he outgrinded the most clutch tennis player in history. It was the perfect match for Alcaraz. Had he done anything else different, he would have most likely lost.

[@raghumanda2tanush496]

even alcaraz missed many break point opportunities because of his nervousness and useless fancy shots, but these experts dont talk about them because these guys predicted djokovic to win , so as their prediction became wrong they focus only on why their prediction became wrong rather than how alcaraz proved them wrong

[@grantmitchel]

@@raghumanda2tanush496 Alcaraz cut down the fancy shots after the first set it seemed and found out he could out rally Djoko with safer shots

[@petershort936]

Re: Sinner, I think Carlos has to play him more like Djokovic does. He needs to resist the temptation to trade knockout blows with Sinner and focus on absorbing and returning with depth, and then choosing his moments to unload.

[@colethomas903]

Peter I agree use all of his variety

[@backto-il9ne]

26 minutes in and the entire commentarty is "Novak gave the game away by not making those two points." No credit to Carlos' game and how his variety denied Novak rhythm. Very weird anaylsis, disrespectful even.

[@aha3885]

Totally agree.

[@yago7133]

Lol, is Flink an analyst or Djokovic cheerleader?

[@GoWarriors]

Novak got tight because the rival made him get tight. c’mon give Alcaraz a little bit of credit. I didn’t hear Carlos’ name very often in this interview

[@DandanGallagher]

To all the people who are criticizing the analysis, I think the point is this: the match had 5 clear acts. Act 1: Carlos out of his depth and Novak in killer mode Act 2: Very tight set decided in small details Act 3: Novak out of his depth and Carlos in killer mode Act 4: Novak in killer mode and Carlos slightly below form but still very good. Act 5: both players went for it. As usual in tennis, this set is more representative of the whole match as both players made some crucial plays and also mistakes and the scale tipped to Carlos’ side. Djokovic didn’t lose the set as much as Carlos didn’t win it. The match didn’t go to the 5th for nothing. It was that tight and after Novak’s botched swing volley and Carlos’ subsequent break of serve, they still remained close to the end. It’s not as if Carlos had ran away with the match in a 6-2 final set. It was a beautiful match, a well deserved victory and you know that’s the case because of how well Djokovic took that defeat and how highly he praised Alcaraz afterwards. Novak knows after 35 slam finals when a good deserving player is on the other side of the net and that’s Carlos Alcaraz. Can’t wait for these two to meet again!

[@Montaycabe]

All Novak’s fans forget what happened in RG. When the match was even and Carlos seemed to have a better vibe he cramped. Was that unfair? I don’t think so. It was a superlative mental issue because of Carlos’ lack of experience, and he paid a high price. It was absurd to speculate what would have happened without that factor. Now, in WB, there were misses from both sides and eventually the best one won. It’s as absurd as then to think of theoretical alternative realities

[@yanair2091]

We can still think of it and discuss. You are absolutely right that it is absurd to make excuses, but it can be interesting to discuss "What if?".

[@BOZ_11]

muscle cramps come from electrolyte imbalance. nothing to do with nerves

[@Montaycabe]

@@BOZ_11 Wow!! You against the whole world, including Alcaraz and his medical team as well

[@BOZ_11]

@@Montaycabe most people know it's about electrolytes, so does Carlos's team (he was drinking electrolytes during his breaks at Wimbledon). Not really me against the world, but knowledgeable VS ignorant

[@MattSuddarth]

​@@BOZ_11Muscle cramps are caused by various reasons, electrolytes being only one of them.

[@avijitjha1614]

So in the 4th set when Novak is behind 15/ 40 and Alcaraz has break point , then it means Novak escaped. But when in the 5th set, 2nd game Novak has break point and doesn't convert , it changes the outcome of the match. Why not discuss how if Alcaraz had broken Djokovic in the 4th, there never would have been a 5th.

[@monkeonthee]

Yup. This is a silly video. It felt like one of those Djoko stans from TTW was just typing away.

[@luisendymion9080]

Such a big time fail and later on the set than Nole's and not even mentioned. Embarassing. Never seen Alcaraz so angry at himself, even hitting the chair during the pause.

[@roydondsa]

Exactly... These guys are always licking His ass

[@andrewkwchew]

Absolutely agree on the quality of Alcaraz’s returns. Limited Novak to 2 aces in the match. 2 aces! In a 5-set match.

[@Weityki]

Thats because Novaks serve failed him totally

[@JackieRobinsonM]

@@Weitykiso many excuses. Maybe Alcaraz’s FH failed him on very important points?

[@Weityki]

@@JackieRobinsonM no excuses , Alcy deserved the win ..but Novak wasnt himself at all everybody knows that

[@Fraudkovic]

@@Weityki novak wasn't himself because alcaraz dominated him mentally

[@z1az285]

@@Weityki That's because Alcaraz was returning superbly throughout the tournament. It was one reason Watson made him a 55-45% favorite over Novak.

[@michaelgarza8271]

Alcaraz's insane scrambling and overall pace and energy probably made the usually unbreakable Djokovic feel pressured. That probably contributed to his mistakes...and he seemed very troubled by the wind as well.

[@jonathanchen1026]

Exactly! It wasn’t just Djokovic making an unforced error, but Alcaraz applying the pressure in the back of Djokovic’s mind knowing he better hit a great shot or Alcaraz is going to run it down!

[@michael8597]

@@jonathanchen1026 Can you please enlighten me as to how Alcaraz forced Novak to make those fatal succession of unforced errors - three to be precise - in the second set tie break?

[@Fraudkovic]

​​@@michael8597st error at 6-5 is just a deep bh which novak even mentions had a weird bounce . 2nd error at 6-6 is the only truly surprising error he made . But even then that could be nerves because alcaraz owns him mentally . Also both those backhand even if he made them don't win him the point so idk why you're crying

[@michael8597]

@@Fraudkovic He lost those points buddy netting them. That proved so crucial. Novak is not an aggressive player, but a percentage player. What do you mean by deep backhand at 6-5 ??? It was just a regulation back hand and Novak did mention that the reason he missed might perhaps be weird bounce, but on grass normally the bounce is hardly even. Players only adjust their shots. It is not a cross court forehand or a half volley, but a makeable back hand. We are talking about a player who rarely misses in tie breaks. At least you admit that at 6-6 he made a very bad unforced error that probably cost him the match. Before that at 3-2 Novak attempts a foolish drop shot from the back of the court which even Flinks pointed out in his analysis. That is three Unforced errors in a tie break. Again 1-0 in the fifth set, he has a break point and pushes a regulation forehand to the net. Next comes in the next service game when at 30-all he misses a regulation sideways smash to the net. That leads to a break. You see how many errors he made in big points which is so uncharacteristic of him and that is exactly what Flinks pointed out and also the reason why he lost. He perhaps might have been over confident that led to this unexpected defeat.

[@michael8597]

@@Fraudkovic The points won - Alcaraz 167; Novak - 166 even after all such fatal errors and you brag about being owned. Ha ha ha 😂😅😁😁😅😁

[@RaphaelBas1995]

I really believe you two spend too much time focusing on Djokovic’s mistakes, even though the match was mostly on Alcaraz’s racket (note the winner count). Yes, Novak did not play his best (neither did Carlos), but it bordered on excuses for Novak at times. He’s won 23 Slams, he doesn’t need excuses.

[@Chris-bg4vi]

I agree. Alcaraz also made some uncharacteristic mistakes on easy drop shots, volleys & forehands, costing crucial games for him in the 1 & 4 sets.

[@aiylacarson]

This match analysis is basically let’s make excuses for Nole. Do better.

[@ericchu2682]

This Podcast focuses too much on why Djoker lost as opposed to what Alcaraz did amazingly right to WIN this match, to overcome the overwhelming odds against him and WIN the championship! Djoker got nervous? That's why he lost? No...the story is how Alcaraz didn't let nerves hold him back (esp in the 5th) and played aggressive tennis and snatched the Trophy!!

[@raghumanda2tanush496]

even alcaraz missed many break point opportunities because of his nervousness and useless fancy shots, but these experts dont talk about them because these guys predicted djokovic to win , so as their prediction became wrong they focus only on why their prediction became wrong rather than how alcaraz proved them wrong

[@stevenrodriguez8021]

I think that the analysis is too much focus in the "if's", if Djokovic did not loose the second set, if Djokovic did not waste the breal point in the fifth, if Djokovic did not play so tight because is a final, the reality is that he did, because as the weather the scenario also counts, and this time Djokovic did not manage as well as always, probably because he also felt that if he miss a shot the price to price was higher that it is with a different oponent. Djokovic is hugh but time catch us all, and maybe feel that the opportunities of the Grand Slam or the 24th are less and less each year that pass.

[@amirabukalam8370]

Flink please give credit where credit is due. Carlos was the better player and deserves the win full stop. Those backhands error even if Novak made them there was no guarantee that he would win the points. Don’t make them as if the court was wide open and Novak made the mistakes.

[@crocr]

Steve Flink is such a Djokovic fan boy. He needs to give more credit to Alcaraz. Novak has never faced a younger player as good as him. He is a generational talent.

[@kianmath71]

I think alcaraz has a higher chance of beating nole in us open

[@Fraudkovic]

Definitely. I think alcaraz will have more trouble with sinner than nole

[@kianmath71]

@@Fraudkovic thats true

[@ja-kl8rg]

Yes with hecklers , crowd ,umpires he got a chance 😅

[@kianmath71]

Clearly you didnt watch the match

[@sonicmoj1]

According to the media, Djokovic is done. He should just retire tomorrow because he's totally washed up and will never win another match, title or Grand Slam. Also according to the media, Alcaraz is the best player in the history of tennis. He's already project to have 30 GS and 500 weeks at No.1. Novak you're done. The passing of the torch is complete and you'll probably forgot how to hold a racquet. He'll probably lose in the first round of USO according to the experts. Remember one GS loss answers all the questions about Novak that he lost all his skills the next day. Carlos will win the next 10 Grand Slams in a row. I said it right here!

[@rublo1]

Seriously gill asks him the opening question of what aspects of this match surprised you the most, thinking for some big picture analysis, and dude just talks about 2 missed points by Novak. Just ugh

[@Zeroasd693]

At this age in his career, Djokovic really has changed his strokes mechanics to be more flat, which would gives him the pace to beat out the younger guys' speed as generally he does have the accuracy and the depth. His shots no longer have the spins like they used to as he doesn't use his wrists action as much (probably to protect that part of his arm and the elbow as well). Thus, he didn't have the margin in a windy conditions like in the Finals and his timing had to be spot on, otherwise, it led to mistakes like in the 2nd set tiebreak

[@maxpowers4436]

I dont think thats accurate the older you get the more spin you add to the ball to allow control. Because you simply cannot hit has hard and accelerate anymore. Novaks issue is now with the added spin he has he has no weight behind his shots. Just go back at him during peak US open those balls are all flat with weight. Novaks grip naturally makes him hit with a more vertical path. What he is lacking is more weight behind the shots. Roger hit with more spin the older he got and Nadal while always hitting with more spin is also hitting not as hard anymore. So Novak is currently hitting topspin nothing balls with no weight behind them like when you take a big cut out of the ball but it has no power.

[@Zeroasd693]

@@maxpowers4436 I am actually very convinced it is the opposite case here because if you take a close look at his slowed down forehand shot, he tends to have a very flat swing to the ball. Most of his shots now doesn't even bounce as high as it did back in 2011. You would think it's counterintuitive but it's actually what he's employing. When he's younger, he had the spare energy to generate more spins which makes the ball tougher to go out as it really dips, it was harder for the opponent to attack because of the spins which translates to the "heavier" shot. Now because he doesn't generate as much spins, when he leaves it short in the court, it looks like a "weak ball" that you mentioned. This is true for all of the big 3, as they aged, they have to flatten the ball out more for more court penetration and more pace instead of hitting loopier balls with higher rpms.

[@z1az285]

@@Zeroasd693 Absolutely. I would say though it applies to Djokovic and Nadal more, but if you noticed both Novak and Nadal have added more muscle mass and both are actually hitting the ball harder (Novak since 2022/23 and Nadal since 2019). Nadal though is still hitting with 4000 rpms. But it makes sense. They have lost speed and can't play long rallies every point. As a matter of fact the best indicator was Carlos was rattled during the French open since he told his team Novak was finishing all points under 5 shots and he couldn't make it physical. That was amazing to hear. Federer was hitting the ball really well even at 38 in the 2019 final both pace and spin.

[@maxpowers4436]

@@Zeroasd693 I mean Gill and Flink literally talk about how Novak was just spinning the ball in with no pace in this analysis. So whether or not you are convinced is irrelevant to me as ive watched the match and they agree. A few things. Whats happened to his forehand exactly like Rogers and Nadals is not that its gotten flatter its gotten shorter. It spends less time in each position, there is less racket flip and its less explosive. His racket path was always very LINEAR even when he was younger his spin comes from his grip mostly not his swing path like Nadal or Roger. When he was younger he was more explosive on the forehand and it had longer wind up. As you said when he was younger he had more energy to be explosive on every shot. To swing faster and more explosive. That is what determines "weight of shot" you can skim the ball and barley hit it and it will topspin alot but wont go anywhere. Nadal shots are heavy because not only is he generating spin he is hitting the ball fkn hard. As i said you can hit the ball soft and get alot of spin. He is not hitting with more spin hes just not hitting as hard. "This is true for all of the big 3, as they aged, they have to flatten the ball out more for more court penetration and more pace instead of hitting loopier balls with higher rpms." You have it backwards they hit with more spin as they get older. RF did NOT hit a flatter ball as he got older he relied on more spin and control to do for him that he could not manage with pace anymore. The older Roger got the MORE reverse forhands and more forehands he hit like Nadal not less.

[@maxpowers4436]

@@z1az285 They do not have more muscle mass the older they are. The clearly have less. Nadal is less muscular and less lean. Compare him now to his 20s you must be blind tbh. When Nadal was young the main focal point was that we have never seen a tennis player his muscular with a bicep like that.

[@gerardogilsanz1171]

I liked Joel Drucker assessment that Novak is clever. He knew who was on the other side. Listening to Flink seems Alcaraz had nothing to do whatsoever in his victory.. Nole just handed it to him. Did not like it. Nole had 40 UEs. And a low 1st service winning percentage

[@stevenellis5574]

Great insight guys, Thanks!

[@trishennaidoo1309]

I think Novak didn't realize how good Alcaraz got and is ,especially since what happened in RG ,Alcaraz gets better from that result ,Novak is in the elevator on the top floor and the door just closed

[@Andres-qm1xx]

He is not thar good please stop overhyping this kid is nothing special there are plenty like him

[@xxprodigygod7627]

​​​@@Andres-qm1xxnothing special ? Carlos Alcaraz at age 20 Already won 2 grand slams you hater and his career winning Percentage is 79.5% now please tell me those Plenty players at age 20 with a 79.5% winning percentage and Having 2 Grand Slams ? Carlos Alcaraz is that good you Idiot he beat Djokovic in his own House with grass being his Weakest Surface lol..

[@christheprophet6583]

@@Andres-qm1xx Who?

[@Andres-qm1xx]

@@christheprophet6583 rune sinner tiafoe korda and a big etc

[@mercybwalya2389]

@@Andres-qm1xx serious man? They are not his level yet. Why haven't they accomplished what carlos has in 2022 and 23? I am not saying that they won't, it's probable that they will

[@paulatling8844]

Most of the pressure came from his opponent and he was getting tired. Also he was concerned about a penalty after the two warnings about his excessive average of 8 seconds over the 25 second max timer.

[@darrylthornton5377]

Absolutely agree, IMO Gill nor his guess gave enough credit to Carlos for impacting Novak’s play.

[@rag7027]

the main reason Novak lost this match was his serve, and it is not an excuse but a fact. Carlos played his best tennis of the tournament, but Novak completely let himself down with the serves. I do give full credit to Carlos for handling nerves better during crucial points though.

[@Francisco_Munoz]

I my opinion Carlitos has at least an extra gear in his game, maybe it is not so available in grass yet, but in any other surface he can perform way better than he did in Wimby. We’ll see this soon in hard court next part of the season.

[@xxprodigygod7627]

This guy is extremely Bias.. Alcaraz Also made some crucial Unforced Errors in Fact he made more Unforced Errors than Djokovic and still won because he Hit A lot of Clutch Game winners... Djokovic won Plenty of grand slams that he should've lost like in the 2019 Wimbledon or 2011 US Open ...

[@SM-vm5cy]

One of the very few instances when the analysis is rather subjective, highlighting that it was Djokovic who made the errors hence he lost the match. The narrative should be that Carlos played so well and apllied tremendous pressure which led to Djokovic making more errors. Again, disappointing analysis!

[@nes182]

Djokovic made those mistakes because of how Alcaraz was playing, and that's it, in first and second set Carlos also made a lot of unforced errors, so he could have won at least the second set easily, and 4th set too, so, is not like Djokovic should have won, he could not do it, because Carlos played better over all

[@adrianonline69]

Exactly the joker was beaten by the better player in all metrics on the day. I think that Charlie could have won in4 sets if not for his unforced errors.😊

[@lsmart]

Loved the analysis of Gil and the esteemed Steve, but I'd like to point out two things that they both seemingly overlooked. In both RG and Wimbledon, Carlos's nerves basically gave away the first set on a silver platter. For any other player playing against Novak, that alone would be game, set, match. So while Steve went on at length implying that Novak only lost because of his unforced errors at 2 key points, on which he is correct, the only reason that was true was because Carlos handed him a free set with ease. Thus, overall, it is inaccurate to say that this should have been Novak's match to win. Moreover, from here on, where I don't believe that will be the case any longer, it will make conditions even more favorable for Carlos to win. Secondly, I believe Novak had seen enough of Carlos -- including his performance in set 2 of RG -- to realize that if he could only keep his nerves reasonably in check, he could be his equal, point for point, and it was therefore not merely a coincidence that he made more UE's, esp. in big moments. For so long now, he has entered every match convinced that he was the better player, so that when he suddenly faced a player who was his actual equal, he suddenly lost a bit of his usual confidence. After all, he has publicly stated on numerous occasions that one of the reasons he has been so unbeatable in tie-breakers, is that his record of success in breakers gives him a huge confidence advantage from the outset, causing him to be calm and causing his opponents to tense up. That was reversed against Carlos.

[@ranrabi9381]

This is a superb episode. I just don’t like Flink’s approach saying “I don’t think he shouldn’t have been in this position (Alcaraz to win the match). There’s no “if” in tennis. There are countless of examples to “ifs”- Federer vs Novak in the 11’, 12’ US open, Rafa vs. Novak in AO 2012, Novak vs Rafa 2013 RG.

[@0812820]

Flink is clearly a Djokovic fanboy. This is disingenuous one -sided “what if” commentary from him. Alcaraz should have won the second set before the TB. He had chances early in the fourth set to put a stranglehold on the match, and he also had a break point the first game of the fifth. Alcaraz didn’t convert on a ton of break points, including the first game of the match. If he played smarter he could’ve won the match more easily. However, in sports commentary you should analyze what happened not what didn’t.

[@namangupta3523]

I hate to say but Steve is a Djoker fan it seems. He always tries to make a point that Djoker loses because of his own mistakes. To be honest, Djoker can lose even when he doesn't make mistakes as he is not a God. Moreover, if someone is committing mistakes it is because the person on the other side of net is forcing you to do it. So many times, players have tried to go for bit more because of court coverage of Big 3. This time it was Djoker who thought that he needs to go for bit more. Moreover law of averages always gets you. Gill pointed out that well and so did Novak himself. Matches Novak could have lost: 1) 2011 Italian open semi vs Murray 2) 2011 Us Open semi vs Roger 3) 2010 Us open semi vs Roger 4) 2012 Shanghai open final vs Murray 5) 2012 AO final vs Nadal 6) 2018 Wimbledon semi vs Nadal 7) 2019 Wimbledon final 8) 2021 RG Final 9) 2012 AO semi vs Murray 10) 2013 AO vs Wawrinka Matches he could have won: 1) 2013 RG semi vs Nadal 2) 2009 Madrid semi vs Nadal 3) 2023 Wimbledon Final 4) 2014 AO vs Stan 5) 2012 US Open final 6) RG 2023 quarters vs Nadal had he made it to fifth set

[@jacobschmidt2709]

USO 2013 as well. If Novak converts one of the three break points at 0-40, he goes up 2 sets to 1 and likely wins the match.

[@kenrypierce8418]

Stop making excuses for Djokovic. He made those errors because Alcaraz was on the other end of the net. This analysis is BS as you are trying to diminish this win over your boy. Alcaraz was the better player and deserves all the credit and glory.

[@michaelgarza8271]

I completely agree with Gill about Djokovic trying to serve and volley down set point. It seems like a weakness. He's not Pete Sampras, and the courts aren't fast like they were long ago. Make the opponent earn the point. There used to be an idea at Bolliteri's Academy about playing "rough" when you're ahead in the score, and "tough" when you're behind.

[@utkarshdeshmukh6414]

I personally felt that Novak knew that he lost this one because of his own mistakes though Alcaraz was the better player. Novak knows its all still in his hands. He's been the greatest problem solver in the history of tennis. This may be his sternest test!

[@Dan-id9qs]

🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@takodanobaba]

​@@Dan-id9qsyou still think that lol

[@bassmaster1953]

No one will say it so I will. Carlos Alcaraz is all three GOATS in one. No weakness, all the tools. The way he played the final game is all you need to know about him. All first serves in. Continued to use his many bag of tricks. Drop shot, lob, blistering forehand. There is now only one...Carlos Alcaraz

[@andrewkwchew]

The reason why Novak has significantly more unforced errors (40 in total; e.g. the failed backhand drop at 3-0 in the breaker) compared to his previous matches is because Novak feels he has to go for MORE on his shots as he cannot withstand Carlos’ offence. In tiebreaks against most players, Novak can simply be the wall and last the point and coax unforced errors out of the opponent. Here he can’t because Alcaraz’s offence can be so overwhelming that even Novak’s defence is no match for. Novak can of course wait for Alcaraz to go for too much on his winner attempts (which Alcaraz did in the first set where he was just too trigger-happy) but that risks being blown off the court if Alcaraz pulls off those attempts as winners. So on a risk-reward basis, Novak felt he needed to take more risks.

[@Fontsman-14]

Exactly. He knows if Carlos gets the forehand, he's in big trouble.

[@ja-kl8rg]

Unforced error by definition means it is not forced by other player (Carlos).

[@michael8597]

The regulation backhands that Novak netted was not forced. Just look at the match in you tube video and just dont bl@bber n0nsense.

[@ZetaCheese]

@@ja-kl8rgunforced means not directly forced by the player. Unforced has nothing to do with indirect pressure from the opponent (i.e. coaxing errors)

[@ZetaCheese]

Alongside fear of carlitos offense, i think he was feeling pressure from carlitos’s defense and rally tolerance too. He wasn’t dominating long rallies. Plus, carlitos’s unbelievable speed and slice defense meant he was getting fewer winners

[@dariusz_darson_8968]

I'm so disappointed in Flink. Basically all he does in this convo is devaluing Carlos' win. It sounds like "novak made 2 simole backhand errors, he made the swing volley error - thays why Carlos won" What? Sure, those were crucil points and pivotal moments in general, but one so called serious analyst cannot just sau "yeah, that's why he lsotnin the end" We don't know. Maybe Nole would've won, maybe Carlos still would've prevailed.

[@aiylacarson]

Omg this guy thinks they should have closed the roof cause of some wind? Like are you for real? It’s an outdoor tournament! I don’t know how anyone can take this guy seriously? All he does is make excuses for Novak.

[@pritesh-epm2700]

Alcatraz lockdown is now officially complete on centre@SW19 (Serb's Kingdom) Come the US Open (the physical slam) it could be history repeats itself there as well. AO would be the defining factor to determine whether Novak is able to win more slams in the foreseeable future.

[@ghsense2626]

Alcaraz will win the next 10 slams barring injury. I have a feeling Novak retires after next season along with Nadal because hes gonna be on the losing end to Alcaraz in many finals

[@colethomas903]

Pritesh if Carlos wins AO it’s gg for Novak

[@Adaobieistyping]

@@ghsense2626😂😂😂 nobody has won 10 slams in a row

[@nathanesau1]

I think people are too hard on this analysis. Novak was the player to beat and a 7 time Wimbledon champion and had a potential grand slam on the line. From this perspective, focusing on Novak makes sense. I do agree that Novak made some crucial mistakes that cost him the match and that is worth analyzing. If you listen around 20 minutes in, Flink switches to talking about what Alcaraz did well. Such as the adjustments Alcaraz made in the second, such as probing more and not trying to hit forehands too hard. And in the fifth where Alcaraz didn't play nervous and served well. Chill people. Alcaraz and Novak are both amazing and it was a very close match that could have went either way. The difference in points was very little in the match.

[@ahmedayed3704]

This steve guy’s analysis is garbage. More of a lamentation than an analysis. Carlos Alcaraz was the the greater player, had the most winners (nearly double Novak’s), converted 5 bp out of 19 whilst Novak converted 5 from 15.

[@robw74]

Exactly this is a very biased analysis imo. What a shame.

[@westonmeyer3110]

More than double. 66 winners to 32

[@jwenang5364]

Novak didn't play all that bad, he just got beat...once Carlos realized he didn't have to hit awesome shots and could just rally with Novak he'd eventually find openings while Novak would go for too much...Carlos is now the new King, the writing is on the wall

[@rag7027]

Novak’s downfall was the serve. Period.

[@captsagar]

How much is this guy Flink feeling sorry for Djokovic loss?? The wind was there for Both players do manage. But the fact remains that 1 player managed it better than the other so you cannot bend rules to suit the way one player likes it and not the other.

[@jmtrevijano9160]

Wimbledon is an outdoor event and I am sure Djokovic knows well.

[@jezzaus2124]

We're just not used to seeing Djokovic miss as much as he did on the big points.

[@Fraudkovic]

Becuaee alcaraz was in his head

[@raghumanda2tanush496]

even alcaraz missed many break point opportunities because of his nervousness and useless fancy shots, but these experts dont talk about them because these guys predicted djokovic to win , so as their prediction became wrong they focus only on why their prediction became wrong rather than how alcaraz proved them wrong

[@zxt327]

If carlos defends USO, it will set up a very interesting AO24. Novak obviously has a long history of domination there, and typically everyone he faces is a huge underdog, but if carlos can beat him on grass, it's difficult to pick a favourite in a potential AO final.

[@Andres-qm1xx]

Novak will beat him in straights in the AO

[@ghsense2626]

Nadal will be fav freshly back from injury

[@xxprodigygod7627]

​@@Andres-qm1xxno he won't... djokovic only won in the French open because carlos got cramps..

[@Andres-qm1xx]

@@xxprodigygod7627 hard court are novak bests. Carlos is a clay courter like the other spaniard guy.... nadal

[@xxprodigygod7627]

@@Andres-qm1xx Crarlos Alcaraz is 16-2 on grass with 2 titles already you idiot LMAO.... Carlos is nothing like Nadal he can adapt easily to any court... Djokovic even said it that He never played anyone as Complete as carlos alcaraz... Carlos won the US Open at age 19 Think About that ? Carlos Can Adapt to any Surface Better than Anyone... it Took Djokovic way longer to adapt to grass and Hard Court while Alcaraz adapted Faster... Carlos alcaraz at age 20 is way better than Djokovic Was at age 23 LMAO...

[@marlenebuls9535]

Great discussion. The wind was definitely a factor. Jannick Sinner said that Carlos and Rafa are the best wind players.

[@suanhaupu3057]

And Novak is a terrible one. Remember the windy French Open against Thiem in 2019…. He was totally affected by the wind

[@Fraudkovic]

​@@suanhaupu3057adapt and overcome . No excuses

[@Weityki]

@@Fraudkovic just Like no excuses for Rafa that he didnt adapt well anywhere else besides clay ,right? Tell that to his uncle Toni who thinks there should be more clay surfaces so that Rafa can win more 👌

[@Fraudkovic]

@@Weityki yes I agree . No excuses for nadal . Give me uncle Tony's number so I can tell him personally . So now that we agree. Carlos alcaraz was the better player than novak djokovic in that final

[@_MrAvocado_]

​@@Weitykilol didn't adapt anywhere else well besides clay? If a player wins a career grand slam demonstrably he has adapted to every surface. Nadal has acheived this twice winning two grand slams on each surface. Case closed.

[@edddzw7430]

2013 french open fifth set up a break. hit an overhead and touched the net, lost the point, the break, and the match

[@christheprophet6583]

2012 AO Nadal up a break and misses a easy forehand you forgot that one.

[@kurofune.uragabay]

If if if. It just gives me the s---s every time I hear someone like Steve Fink with what I think is a very clear bias try and rationalize their disappointment and essentially convince us that Alcaraz didn't win that final with his play, it was just a case of Djokovic losing it by failing to convert *very specific* opportunities. And this is the key element here, he's cherry-picking what the critical points where to suit his narrative. The opportunities that his opponent missed (for example, he hit the tape with a drop volley when 0-30 up on the 2nd set on Djokovic's serve to go 0-40 and have a great opportunity to break and go 3-1 and then surely serve to 4-1 and take the set, in which case there would have been no tie-break. Or on the 4th set, with Djokovic serving 2-1 down, a long game with several deuce where Alcaraz had a couple of very close calls - cross court passing shot missing by just an inch or two - to get a break-point and possibly take the match in 4 sets) DON'T COUNT, because if Djokovic gets a chance he should take it, right? I mean, how could he not, _he's the great Djokovic_ ffs... 😶 Well, apart from that colour-blind side of the argument, I for one wouldn't be so sure that if Djokovic had gone 2 sets to nil up he'd run away with it. He might have, or maybe not. The guy across the net wasn't just any player, he is fearless, and, for all of Djokovic's great management of his body, _he's still a 36 years old_ guy playing a smart, skilled and supremely fit 20 year old. On that note, I think on the last set he was having some physical issues, ie some problem with his left leg and that might have affected some of his shot-selection towards the end. In any case, hard to listen to monotonic people with an agenda like that, I had to say see-you-later mid way through. Sayonara, zbogom

[@michael8597]

Alcaraz lost the 4th set with two breaks. This happened only after he won the 2nd set, which he was so lucky to win. So your premise that Alcaraz would have won even if he lost the 2nd set look so hollow.

[@kurofune.uragabay]

Oh, and by the way, perfectly normal to have a giant poster filling the background with one's photo and name across it. Definitely no red flags there, uh uh.

[@rublo1]

Couldn’t agree more

[@kevaldinho]

I love your work and Steve Flink is great but it’s too much emphasis on Djokovic making key mistake and ‘what if’ and how he should have won. Well the reason is all down to the speed and pressure of Alcaraz and we need to focus on Alcaraz. And even if Djokovic made the first back hand, it wasn’t a winner, Alcaraz still may have made the next shot difficult. Let’s focus on giving Carlos the credit he deserves. They all miss key points, but Alcaraz held his nerve more

[@Fraudkovic]

Steve flink is a known biased djokovic fan . Never gives full credit to the opponent

[@anniegetchergun]

Well said!!!

[@soheiladam7510]

​@@Fraudkovicnothing wrong with being biased, most of us are, but I think that Gill should guide the conversation so they can discuss Alcaraz more, but I understand why they would focus on Novak, he's the favorite and the current legend so nothing wrong with that.

[@Spacejuno]

@@soheiladam7510yes it’s wrong because we are talking about tennis and what a monumental match this was for Carlitos and tennis history. And to make an analysis based solely from the Novak perspective is a huge disservice to the match itself and to tennis in general. Gilll knows this.

[@raghumanda2tanush496]

even alcaraz missed many break point opportunities because of his nervousness and useless fancy shots, but these experts dont talk about them because these guys predicted djokovic to win , so as their prediction became wrong they focus only on why their prediction became wrong rather than how alcaraz proved them wrong

[@vivahernando1]

Obscure match comparison. I remember when Jim Courier lost the French Open final to Sergi Bruguera in 1993 after blowing 2 sets to 1 and also up a break in the 5th set. Thats the last match that I've heard so much would of could of from the pundit class

[@hih5868]

Blah blah Steve. Your boy Novak lost and it wasn’t because of 1 or 2 points. Ridiculous take. Alcaraz was the better player overall, better shots, placement and handled pressure better in the fifth set

[@cloba9414]

What an amazing way to end Wimbledon, tuning in to your insightful and in-depth analysis.

[@dluu25]

How many times did Steve interrupt Gill lol. Gill must have been so annoyed but kept it professional. 😂

[@jayharvey3907]

This may well be my last time visiting the post-major analysis with Steve Flink, who abused the privilege of being a guest with his frequent interruptions and redirections of the conversation. It was amazing that Gill could keep his train of thought on track. Both men are experts and basically respectful, but Flink went way overboard here exploiting the opportunity.

[@rublo1]

Same, so disappointed. He was also entirely biased and all Novak Novak Novak. I know gill disagrees with him deep down but had to keep it together

[@Spacejuno]

@@rublo1are you new to this ? He always does that he never gives credit to other players it’s only Novak,Novak,Novak. Welcome to the Steve flunk show.

[@leebrandt33]

Man this Steve guy needs to let others speak

[@tobiasgoldman]

"Yes, yes , you're totally right, I agree with you", and talks over you. Every time 😂.

[@marko6947]

66 winners to 32 GOAT Alcaraz

[@ja-kl8rg]

23 > 1

[@toddjohnson271]

you do know what GOAT means....right?

[@vivahernando1]

@@ja-kl8rg23 > 2

[@ja-kl8rg]

​@@vivahernando1can't recognise slams when Djokovic was banned . Sorry

[@Francisco_Munoz]

After seeing Carlitos’ performance in Wimbledon I can hardly think he’d lost against Novak in Roland Garros if cramps wouldn’t have appeared.

[@elchiquifru]

So Gil, are you saying that the only possibilities that Djokovic lost the final are because he got tight or simply because it was the law of averages? Really? Wow. So the most talented guy we’ve seen in decades playing on the other side of the net had nothing to do with him putting pressure on Djokovic, which led to him losing the match? I guess we saw a different match.

[@ahmedbebars6844]

Even two sets up, there's still no guarantee that Djokovic would have won the match. I disagree.

[@SJ-di5zu]

Same. Alcaraz was extremely resilient during that match and down 2 sets, he’d probably play very focused the next two sets. I doubt he would’ve served so loosely in the 4th set if he was down 2 sets to 1 like he did in this match. It’d be a mountain to climb, but Alcaraz would’ve had a chance.

[@moisesovallesrodriguez3795]

Alcaraz himself said it that losing the 2nd set he’ll probably would have lost in straights. He said himself.

[@robertingersoll3039]

@@moisesovallesrodriguez3795 That does not mean it would have 100% happened though. It's a best of 5 for a reason. Analysts will give their opinions (in this case highly respectable perspectives of Flink & Gross) with hindsight. Even the notion that had Novak gone 2-0 in the 5th, then he would have won is debatable. Every game Alcaraz was challenging Novak in the 5th, Alcaraz was not going away in the 5th even if he had got broken in the 0-1 service game in 5th.

[@bharat201]

​@@moisesovallesrodriguez3795Alcaraz is too humble. He says he is not good enough for anything. 😂

[@ProbablyLying]

@Gill Gross, I feel that you can thank Steve for particular aspects of his commentary like he did with your hosting and moving the discussion forward. Great conversation and insights from both of you. I hope for more podcasts with this guest.

[@stefannedeljkovic4395]

Imo, both of them played subpar. Djokovic lacked intensity and aggression, choked on some big points, and served poorly. His return was also too passive for his standards and given that Alcaraz doesn't have that big of a serve. Alcaraz started out poorly and was generally tight and missed some shots that usually makes. The Djokovic-Nadal 2018 semifinals were much better quality-wise, as both players brought their A-game. This was like 70% Djokovic, 75% Alcaraz

[@rantidebmaitra9776]

To me ,it appeared as a lamentation about Novak losing and what could have been done to avoid the defeat. What could have been done by Federer in us open semi or wimby final against Novak ? What could Rafa done in the Australian open final ,the first ,Wimby semi final and the Roland garros open court miss in the semi final etc etc. Alca was simply a better player on that day and winds should have helped Novak more with his 100 times more experience.

[@michael8597]

Did Federer or Nadal made so many unforced errors in a tie break or in the whole match which turned the tide ??

[@rantidebmaitra9776]

The difference between forced and unforced error is thin border line. They did in set and match points.

[@michael8597]

@@rantidebmaitra9776 No you are wrong. If there is no difference between them, why make such distinction in the first place??

[@ja-kl8rg]

He is commenting Novak mistakes and unusually bad performance . The only reason you are triggered is because you know it's truth.

[@maxpowers4436]

@@ja-kl8rg This is tennis there is a basic rule where you always make one more shot than your opponent does this. Novak gets praised for this and rightly so. Then when someone does it against him they dont get shit, give me a break.

[@paulamos1128]

Alcaraz gave the first set away then won in four ,lacking experience on grass and also age,this was a phenomenal win and potentially going to be better than the big three.

[@MrSitemaster2]

Currently, win, lose or draw Carlos is the only player out there who ain't scared of Novak.

[@kurofune.uragabay]

Need to add Rune to the list. 2-1 record on his favour.

[@colethomas903]

Ian agree

[@colethomas903]

Ian yes the only ? for him is can he do it in best of 5

[@pablodiazrueda9630]

This dude talks like he owes money to Nole LOL

[@avijitjha1614]

I say the big 3 are lucky that Alcaraz was not around 10 years back. Otherwise all 3 would have less than 20 slams.

[@omarmorillo9959]

It seems Steve Fink is assuming that Novak wins the 2nd set tie break if he doesn’t miss those 2 backhands.

[@MaxDangVu]

Was waiting for this! Always love these videos. Thanks for your Wimbledon coverage Gill! Gets better every year.

[@ostrogodo]

So, 2 errors are more surprising than alacaraz being almost a baby mythical creature.

[@umermaqsood3486]

Alcraz was able to take novak' s back hand to his own back hand and did not afraid to go down the line. Mostly présent players cant take on novak's back hand.

[@davidr2802]

Djokovic wins because he has done so many things so many times. Djokovic lost because he encountered wind for the first time. Huh?

[@CoolAce1]

And some people thought Sinner might beat Novak. lol

[@seatime674]

Anyone that beats Novax 6-1 in the 3rd of a wimbledom Final is a Prodigy Genius... Carlos is the new MULE.... Most Underestimated Lobber extraordinaire😅😅😅

[@kak7440]

One of my favourites - really enjoy these recaps with Steve and his insightful observations.

[@YT-wg8vt]

Me as well. Love listening to these 2 guys talk tennis. Always a treat! Keep up the great work guys!

[@DaveOwen-vn6ie]

How would the stadium rooting against Djokovic/for his opponent affect the match? 2019 Wimbledon final - 99% of the crowd wanted a Federe win but who ended up winning? Wind affected BOTH men!!! It's such a shame that Djokovic fans can't accept on the day, the better player won the match!!

[@kingnole4237]

Noone was better 2 points difference between winner and runners up... Loosers like you always in hurry to down Djokovic

[@Fraudkovic]

No excuses. Alcaraz was the better player. That was the main reason . The rest is just copium

[@Weityki]

Wind favours Alcaraz style shots and has a very bad affect on Novaks flat shots ... Everybody knows that

[@ja-kl8rg]

There is hecklers provoking Novak even when he serves . Crowd was just another thing plus umpires . No other tennis player experienced that ever in history of tennis.

[@Fraudkovic]

@@Weityki lol he should've adapted . Maybe he's just a medicore tennis player . Alcaraz has 3 tournaments on grass and beat djokvoic who has 20 years of experience onnthis surface

[@robw74]

I think it’s fair to say that Novak played his best in the first set and Carlos was nowhere near his best then. The seco nd set Carlos started to relax and play better. This made Novak more tense and miss more. The argument that Novak didn’t win because he wasn’t at his best is just not true. Carlos was also not at his best but still won. in the end Carlos had twice as many winners as Novak. He also had far more opportunities to break serve. Alcaraz won because he was better. It’s funny how this analysis makes out Novak made errors but seems to forgot that Carlos also made errors that he wouldn’t normally make. That is the nature of a major final.

[@Montaycabe]

Absolutely right. If Novak missed this or that… If Novak chose a swing volley instead of an overhead… Carlos missed a couple of key points as well and was out of focus all first set long. That’s part of the game. Period.

[@Weityki]

Carlos is not on the tour long enough so that we can know " his best " .. especially because only Novak can draw out his best in him .. and we all know how Novak looks Like when he is at his best , he wasnt now ..

[@robw74]

@@Weityki that’s nonsense. It’s not only Novak that can bring out his best. Did u not see the us open against Sinner last year? I’ve watched Alcaraz for a few years now and I know that he can play better than he did on Sunday. So can Novak sure. But on Sunday Carlos was clearly the better player with more winners and opportunities over 5 sets so deserved the win.

[@roshanemad-syring3943]

I agree, Carlos actually could've won some Novak service games if he hadnt also made mistakes on break points, at deuce, or at 40-30. Point is, to focus on "ifs" is silly and it's strange that Steve focused so heavily on it when Carlos put up so much quality tennis throughout the match.

[@chrispybisscuit]

14:25 - missed overhead certainly cost Novak the match on that occasion, but in terms of the slightly less direct, latent cost of not taking an overhead, can't think of any other examples across Novak's career.

[@andrewkwchew]

Do you think the fact that Alcaraz sliced that lob made a difference because it meant a “normal” swing volley would have been netted. For a sliced lob, it requires the player to mentally aim for the baseline or even long for it to actually land at no-man’s land. That’s me thinking as a recreational player. But given the top level tennis we are talking about, the fact that the lob was a sliced lob shouldn’t have made a difference for Novak right?

[@chrispybisscuit]

@@andrewkwchew in my view the spin imparted on the lob would have been a factor, but the more potent factor was probably just the position the lob forced Novak into - moving backwards, close to the sideline which introduces a level of doubt as to play it, or not to play it. Additionally, being so tight to the sideline, there was an obvious play (cross court which alcaraz was instinctively covering), which introduced further split second decision making as to whether to make the more unexpected play (hitting down the line or to run with the usual pattern)

[@Fraudkovic]

Novak also missed an overhead in rg 2013 in the 5th set 7-8 0-15 against nadal . Which ultimately led it to becoming 9-7

[@chrispybisscuit]

@@Fraudkovic yes he missed a smash there for Nadal to go up 0-15. But he also lost the next three, one from being passed and two forehands way long. In other words, he wasn’t even close to holding his serve there and wasn’t in a winning position to begin with. So I wouldnt say the smash was the obvious single element that cost him the match

[@ja-kl8rg]

It was not overhead nor volley hard to play running back

[@SJ-di5zu]

This win brings up an interesting question about Alcaraz that I’m sure someone will ask Gill in the mailbag: what’s Alcaraz’s best and worst surface? After last year, I was thinking we need one more season to determine if it’s clay or hard courts. But then this season he wins Indian Wells without dropping a set, wins Barcelona and Madrid again along with a great performance at RG until the cramps against Djokovic, and now wins Queens and Wimbledon. So… I’m lost. I still think he benefits from a higher bounce for his kick serve and likes to take the forehand from a higher contact point. I think the wide kick serve and volley is a great play on a higher bounce, but it worked great at Wimbledon too. And then while a faster surface lets him just blast forehand winners, a slower one makes it harder to rush him the way Jannik Sinner does. I’m thinking a neutral speed, high bouncing hard court is his best. I don’t think court speed really affects him because he adapts his game so well. But I do feel like a higher bounce should always be better for Carlos.

[@rublo1]

He’s surface agnostic, what more proof do you need? All this emphasis on him being only great on clay and not on grass is way too over emphasised imo , even by Novak himself, so much so that he underestimated him on this surface and admitted it so. And it was costly. You all need to stop it

[@aha3885]

He hasn't a worst surface. The guy has played 17 games on grass, and he is champion of Queens and Wimbledon, beating Djokovic in the final. He won the USO at 19 years old, and clay was his kindergarden. I mean, this kid is 20 years old...three times N°1 of the world, two GS, four Masters 1000...he has won big titles on three surfaces. We can look for some weakness, but we'll not find anything. Except his injuries, and that one improve with time. As he gain more experience and learn how to dose better.

[@حسنموساوي-د6ز]

He will dominate the US Open

[@colethomas903]

SJ indoor HC I say but he be another Djokovic great everywhere imho the proof in the puddle

[@SJ-di5zu]

@@rublo1So you’re saying there is no possible way that Alcaraz is slightly better on clay than grass, for example? Lol. I picked Alcaraz as the outright second favorite to win Wimbledon before grass season started and everyone called me crazy. Look at some of my other comments on Gill’s videos. I knew Alcaraz’s game works on every surface. I’m just bringing this up as an interesting thought exercise that will help with future predictions. I still believe he’s slightly better on hard and clay than grass, but I’m not sure anymore.