Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic surprised many by stating that he sees Carlos Alcaraz with a slight edge over Jannik Sinner heading into Sunday’s Wimbledon final. The world number one didn’t hesitate to label the Spaniard as the favorite, citing his current confidence and recent titles.

Alcaraz favored in a thrilling showdown

Although Italian star Jannik Sinner has been playing at a high level, Djokovic believes that Alcaraz’s experience and composure give him a slight advantage. “I see Carlos as the favorite because of the two titles he’s won and the confidence he has right now,” said the Serbian. However, he acknowledged it will be a very tight match, as Sinner “is hitting the ball really well.” He also noted that the match could be as exciting as their showdown in the Roland Garros final.

Djokovic suffers and withdraws in the semifinals

Djokovic himself was not at 100% for his semifinal against Sinner, due to an injury sustained in the quarter-finals. The Serbian had been struggling with physical issues since Australia and Roland Garros, and things only worsened in London. During the match against the Italian, Djokovic suffered a troubling fall and couldn’t perform at his usual level. His movement was limited and he showed visible signs of pain, raising further questions about his future on the tour.

Although he tried to fight back—briefly leading in the third set—he eventually lost in straight sets (6-3, 6-3, 6-4). The defeat reignites debate about whether, at 38 and with recurring injuries, Djokovic should continue competing at the highest level or shift his focus to smaller, less demanding events.

A historic battle with plenty at stake

For Sinner, this will be his first Wimbledon final and a chance to get revenge for several recent losses to Alcaraz, who has won five of their last six meetings. The Spaniard, already with five Grand Slam titles, will be seeking his third Wimbledon crown, while the Italian, who has three majors, is chasing his first on the London grass.

The match promises to be a spectacle, with plenty on the line: either the continued dominance of Alcaraz or Sinner’s definitive breakthrough into tennis greatness. What’s clear is that the post-Djokovic era is taking shape—and the future of men’s tennis will be defined this Sunday on Centre Court.