During the prestigious ceremony ofLaureus World Sports Awards 2025, the Spanish prodigy of tennis Carlos Alcaraz categorically refused to award the priceof the sportsman of the yearIn Novak Djokovic, despite the hopes of seeing the Serbian win this award again. The refusal of Alcaraz and his virulent remarks against his colleague shocked the audience, plunging the ceremony into a tense atmosphere.
Alcaraz, favorite for the titlesportsman of the yearThanks to his impressive season, everyone has surprised, during the award ceremony to Djokovic: “I cannot award a price to someone I don’t consider a good person. The sentence resonated throughout the room and quickly became a burning subject on social networks.
The young tennis player, known for his exceptional talent on the court and his humility outside, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the attitude of Djokovic in recent years. “Although I respect his career and everything he has accomplished in tennis, I cannot ignore his behavior outside the court. Sport is not just winning matches. The attitude and respect for others are fundamental. This is why this price is not intended for him, “said Alcaraz, visibly affected by the situation.
Novak Djokovic’s reaction to Alcaraz’s words was as surprising as the Spanish decision. Instead of reacting with anger or disdain, the Serbian reacted with calm and reflection, which surprised many people present at the Gala. “Carlos has the right to have his opinion,” said Djokovic. “If he considers that my actions are not up to the task, I respect him. I’m not perfect, and I’m constantly striving to improve myself as a person, not just as a tennis player. Life is more beautiful than any trophy. »»
The calm with which Djokovic managed the situation surprised the audience, which expected a more emotional reaction, given the nature of the accusations. Rather than degenerating into open conflict, the situation was managed with mutual respect, even if the tension remained palpable.
The confrontation between Alcaraz and Djokovic is not entirely new. If the two players have a professional relationship and have shared the court on several occasions, their differences in personality and tennis approach are a subject of recurring conversation in recent months.
Alcaraz, greeted for his humility and his positive attitude on and outside the court, seems to have adopted a firm position on the values he considers essential in sport. On the other hand, Djokovic was sometimes criticized for his attitude, both during the matches and in his public statements, in particular concerning his opinions on vaccines and his approach to competition. Despite its success on the court, some believe that Djokovic’s behavior is sometimes below the ideals of respect and sporting spirit that many tennis fans appreciate.
In a recent interview, Alcaraz said that, although he respects Djokovic’s career, he does not always agree with his behavior, especially with his colleagues from the circuit. “He’s a big champion, but it’s not just a matter of trophies. Mutual respect is what really matters, and this is a lesson that I always try to transmit, “said Alcaraz.
Alcaraz’s decision not to reward Djokovic divided public opinion. Some fans have expressed their support for Alcaraz, considering their position as an example of integrity and responsibility in the world of sport. “Carlos is right. Tennis is much more than just being the best. This is a lesson in life, and respect is fundamental, “said an Alcaraz subscriber on Twitter.
For their part, Djokovic fans criticized Alcaraz’s attitude towards one of the most titled tennis players of all time. “I don’t understand how Carlos can say that of a player who opened him so many doors. Djokovic was a model of success and determination, and this is not the case, “said a fan on social networks.
This incident highlighted the growing rivalry between Alcaraz and Djokovic, a rivalry that could intensify as the two players continue to dominate the ATP circuit. Despite tensions, this conflict could encourage the two players to progress and offer more thrilling moments to tennis fans in the future.
Alcaraz, by his sincerity and his attachment to values, clearly shows that, for him, being a good human being is as important as being a good athlete. For its part, Djokovic, by its calm, has shown that maturity and respect are essential, even in the face of direct criticism.
Alcaraz’s decision and Djokovic’s response mark a turning point in the relationship between the two major tennis players. Will it be the beginning of a new fierce rivalry or the opportunity for both players to learn to respect their opinions and differences even more? Only the future will tell us. In the meantime, tennis fans will continue to closely follow the evolution of this story, on and outside the court.
