Novak Djokovic’s victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the Cincinnati men’s final probably needs its own name like “the match” or “the Cin-sational match.” Some are calling it the greatest 3-set match ever played. We’ll settle on something eventually. In the meantime, the epic Djokovic vs Alcaraz rivalry is perched on a brink at 2 apiece. The 2023 U.S. Open awaits.
Storied rivalries in sport cannot be forced or directed upon us. They spring up organically, as Djokovic vs Alcaraz has. That said, the 2023 US Open will gift us with the number one player in the world on one side of the draw and the GOAT of tennis on the other side. We crave another legendary final in this series.
Here are the top five reasons, in descending order, that the 2023 US Open deserves a rematch of Djokovic vs Alcaraz.
5. The USTA Actually Works Hard
The United States Tennis Association (USTA), the governing body responsible for organizing the US Open, has consistently demonstrated its dedication to nurturing and promoting tennis. It can be a behemoth. It can generate enough red tape to encircle the lattices of the Unisphere outside the tennis center ten times over. But as a true not-for-profit, 100% of the USTA’s proceeds go back into the sport.
Through various initiatives, such as grassroots development programs and support for aspiring athletes, the USTA has contributed significantly to the growth of tennis. It invests in junior development, recreational players and professionals. You can quibble with how the USTA spends, but it does spend. Djokovic vs Alcaraz does not involve American players, but they will feel the benefit of what this country has to offer.
4. New York Always Delivers
The setting of the US Open is an essential ingredient that elevates the tournament to rare and crackling air.
Hosted in the bustling and iconic city of New York, the US Open benefits from the city’s vibrant energy and diverse cultural influences. Flushing Meadows becomes a melting pot of cultures and experiences, creating a unique atmosphere that players and fans cherish. The city’s dynamic aura makes it a must-see event for anyone passionate about tennis or simply seeking to soak in the glow of New York.
3. Like It Or Not, The USA Can Drive Marketing
Tennis is on the rise in popularity within the United States. Inspiring talent like Coco Gauff, Taylor Fritz, and Frances Tiafoe are making waves on the international stage. The nation’s interest in tennis has been rekindled. This resurgence in enthusiasm is further bolstered by the fact that American players are consistently competing at the highest levels of the sport.
This new generation of American tennis stars is not only showcasing their skills but also connecting with fans on a personal level.
The United States stands as a sports market like no other, propelling athletes to superstar status and driving their popularity beyond borders. Some hardcore tennis fans might wish the sport could remain a secret among a select few, but the truth is that superstars and rivalries draw in more fans. That in turn raises the stakes of tournaments like the US Open.
With its global influence, the US provides a unique platform for athletes to reach unprecedented heights of fame and recognition. The US Open, being one of the four Grand Slam tournaments, is a pinnacle event where athletes can make history. Djokovic vs Alcaraz sets that path aflame.
2. We Slogged Through A Pandemic
Djokovic missed over a year of tennis in the United States due to Covid-related vaccine policies. While Alcaraz’s first-ever Grand Slam title at last year’s US Open created excitement, something felt missing.
At age 36, Djokovic is showing the world what’s possible. Alcaraz delivers the energy of youth. We deserve this after what we have been through. The world lost close to 7 million people to Covid and sickened billions more. We fought. We argued. At last we have a handle on this waning virus. Sport is a way to mend.
The tennis world can once again put aside opinions on geopolitics and simply root and enjoy Djokovic vs Alcaraz as fans.
1. Djokovic vs Alcaraz The Series Is Incomplete
Djokovic and Alcaraz have now met on clay (Madrid 2022, Roland Garros 2023), on grass (Wimbledon 2023) and on a hardcourt best-of-three (Cincinnati). It’s time for a different rumble: A meeting inside the famed Arthur Ashe Stadium in a best-of-five night match.
The rivalry will not feel complete until this match is contested in this venue– and the 2023 US Open is the perfect time and place. One guy is the defending champion and world number one. The other guy is a 23-time Grand Slam champion and GOAT of the sport. Something’s got to give, and we deserve to find out what and who that will be.
