Carlos Alcaraz Sets the Record Straight: 'I Did Not Copy Djokovic's Serve'

Ahead of the Australian Open, Carlos Alcaraz unveils a revamped serve that bears a striking resemblance to Novak Djokovic's technique.

© VINCE CALIGIURI / TENNIS AUSTRALIA / AFP

Jules Hypolite

le 16/01/2026 à 18h45

1 min to read

Alcaraz Carlos Djokovic Novak

During the preseason, Carlos Alcaraz reworked his service motion, adopting a grip similar to Novak Djokovic's. Naturally, this detail did not go unnoticed by the media and fans.

In his press conference on Friday, the world No. 1, seeking his first Australian Open title, addressed this similarity with the Serb's serve.

"I Did Not Copy Djokovic's Serve"

"You probably meant to say it's very similar to Djokovic's, right? (addressing the journalist). I knew it... (laughs). Seriously, I don't know. I think everyone has to make changes, adjust certain details.

And for me, the serve is something I really want to improve. Every year, in every tournament, I put a lot of effort into my serve.

I just slightly changed the motion, and I feel more comfortable this way. It's more fluid, more relaxed, and perfectly timed. It helps me serve much better. [...] I didn't think about copying Djokovic's serve (smiles). But of course, I can see the similarities."