"Something to behold" - Tennis journalist alleges disrespect towards Novak Djokovic ahead of French Open SF clash with Carlos Alcaraz

American journalist Jon Wertheim has claimed that Novak Djokovic is being disrespected by fans and experts in the lead-up to his French Open 2023 semifinal against Carlos Alcaraz.

There are high expectations of top seed Alcaraz as he enters the semifinals, with many predicting his progression to the finals. Most critics and journalists around the globe aren't attaching too much importance to Djokovic's exceptional track record in Slams given Alcaraz's recent good form.

That has prompted Wertheim, one of the most accomplished sports journalists in the United States, to remind everyone about the Serb's mental strength and outstanding record at the claycourt Major.

"Not saying Djokovic is going to win. But the lack of respect for a guy with 22 Majors, more quarterfinal runs than Nadal at the French Open, and as ironclad mental toughness (over 15 years) as you’ll ever see in sports… is quite something to behold," Jonathan Wertheim wrote.

Novak Djokovic has won an astounding 22 Major titles, placing him firmly in the pantheon of tennis legends. Furthermore, his record at the French Open deserves immense recognition.

With two French Open titles to his name and more quarterfinal appearances than 14-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal, the 36-year-old's command of the claycourts at Roland Garros is undeniable.

Despite his remarkable career and record at the French Open, Djokovic finds himself somewhat overlooked in discussions about the title favorite this year. Carlos Alcaraz has garnered significant attention in the tennis world over the past two years, particularly after his triumphs at the 2022 US Open, the 2023 Indian Wells Masters and the 2023 Madrid Masters.

However, as Wertheim pointed out, Djokovic's ability to thrive under immense pressure cannot be overlooked. The Serb's mental strength on the court is second to none, enabling him to navigate tense situations and emerge victorious when it matters most.

That psychological advantage, combined with his physical abilities and tactical knowledge, make Djokovic a formidable opponent for any player.

Carlos Alcaraz won his previous meeting against Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz after their Madrid Open semifinal

Carlos Alcaraz will take on Novak Djokovic for the second time when they lock horns in the semifinals of the French Open on Friday.

Their previous meeting took place in the semifinals of last season's Madrid Open, with the Spaniard winning 6-7(5), 7-5, 7-6(5) in a thrilling contest that lasted three hours and 38 minutes.

Alcaraz claimed that their fixture in Madrid won't have too much of an effect when they face each other on Friday.

"I would say the match we played last year doesn't affect too much to this one. You know, it was one year ago. I would say both learned a lot from that match, so it's gonna be totally different, and let's see what happen on Friday," Alcaraz said.