Carlos Alcaraz was quick to play down the possibility of Novak Djokovic faking an injury during their quarter-final clash at the Australian Open.
The veteran Serb came from behind to secure a thrilling four-set victory and maintain his hopes of winning the first Grand Slam of the year.
In the early stages of the match, Djokovic needed a medical timeout after pulling up on his leg and grimacing in pain. He left the court with the physio and returned with strapping on his upper thigh.
John McEnroe, who was commentating on the match, was not convinced that Djokovic’s injury was genuine and told Alcaraz not to be ‘fooled’.
However, the Spaniard brushed off any conspiracy theories in his post-match press conference by insisting that his opponent was clearly hurt.
“I think everybody saw in the second set he was struggling a little bit [with] moving,” said Alcaraz.
“I don’t know if it was more running to the forehand or running to backhand, but obviously he was struggling. Then the third and fourth set, I didn’t see anything bad from him. So I’m not saying, like, he made a show.
“I’m just saying that, I don’t know, it’s obvious and everybody saw it that he was struggling in the second set. Then the third and fourth set he showed he was really good.”
MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures, and video on this breaking news story.
Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @DExpress_Sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real-time.
We’re also on Facebook @DailyExpressSport – offering your must-see news, features, videos, and pictures throughout the day to like, comment, and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express, and Express.co.uk.
