The quest for 23!

Alex_Alumni

For the tennis fans amongst you, you'll know today is day where history is on the line. 

It's men's semi-finals day at the French Open, also know as Roland Garros. The second Grand Slam of the year takes place on the clay courts in Paris, France. 

What’s happening?

Perhaps the biggest match of the day is Djokovic vs Alcaraz, from 1.45pm. Zverev vs. Rudd will complete the day's play this evening.

Novak Djokovic, one of the former ‘big 3’ is trying desperately to get to the final and to win once again. His goal is to reach 23 Grand Slam titles, the most of any man in the open era.

As things stand, he's tied at 22 with Rafael Nadal, who has won the French Open a record 14 times. The King of Clay is out through injury this year.

The Spanish heir apparent, fiery youngster Carlos Alcaraz, is the current world no. 1. He is looking to win his 2nd Grand Slam after success at the 2022 US Open.

If Alcaraz beats Djokovic, the all time record for slam wins stays at 22!

 

Head-to-Head

‘But who is likely to win?’ I hear you cry! With 16 years difference in age between them is it a case of youth vs. experience?

Well, their only previous meeting on the tennis court came in the 2022 Madrid Masters, on clay. It was a best of 3 sets, semi-final match, and Alcaraz won 6-7(5) 7-5 7-6(5).

Things will be different today, as it's best of 5 sets, but you can argue the previous win will give the Spaniard a confidence boost! 

 

Coverage

Watch live on Eurosport/Discovery + (subscription required). You can also follow the match with live text and radio commentary across BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, and the BBC Sport website and App.

Let us know if you are tuning in! Who do you think will win?