Carlos Alcaraz issues warning to Novak Djokovic about his Grand Slam record

Carlos Alcaraz reaffirmed his bold goal of reaching Novak Djokovic’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles after winning the 2024 French Open.

The world No 2 also described becoming the eighth Spanish man to triumph at Roland Garros as “something unbelievable.”

Alcaraz overcame world No 4 Alexander Zverev in five sets in the final of the French Open on Sunday to win the Paris Major for the first time.

The Spaniard, who only turned 21 last month, has become the fourth youngest man to win three Grand Slam titles and the youngest to complete the ‘Surface Slam’.

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Alcaraz has repeatedly expressed his desire to chase Djokovic’s mammoth tally of Grand Slam victories in his short career to date.

Last month, Alcaraz explained his lofty ambitions remained unchanged when asked if he was still targeting this record.

“Yes, of course. I am an ambitious guy,” the former world No 1 told BBC Sport .

“I know it is almost impossible to break Novak’s records but I’m playing tennis for myself, for joy and I want to do great things. I want to be part of tennis history.”

Speaking in his post-tournament press conference at Roland Garros, Alcaraz reiterated his goal to catch Djokovic once again, while recognising the great Serbian’s record is “unbelievable.”

“Before facing this final, he (coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero) told me, you’re going to fight for your third Grand Slam title, with everything you have been through, and you know the difficult part of winning a Grand Slam, and ‘Djoko’ has 24,” he said.

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“So it is unbelievable. Right now I can’t think about it. I just want to keep going, and let’s see how many Grand Slams I’m gonna take at the end of my career.

“Hopefully [I will] reach the 24, but right now I’m going to enjoy my third one, and let’s see in the future.”

The three-time Grand Slam champion also discussed joining the Spanish icons who have won the French Open, including 14-time champion Rafael Nadal .

“I mean, winning a Grand Slam is always special. Winning your first in every Grand Slam is always super special,” Alcaraz said.

“But in Roland Garros, knowing all the Spanish players who have won this tournament and be able to put my name on that amazing list is something unbelievable.

“Something that I dream about being in this position since I started playing tennis, since I was five, six years old. So it’s a great, great feeling.”

The 8 Spanish men to win the French Open – as Carlos Alcaraz emulates nation’s greats