When it was revealed that Djokovic had undergone surgery on 5 June for a medial meniscus tear in his right knee, it was not just his title chances that were thrown into doubt.
There were concerns that he would be unable to play at Wimbledon at all.
However, if it was not for the support on his knee, it would have been almost impossible to tell Djokovic had suffered a serious injury.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion had resumed his usual brand of dominant, consistent tennis and dropped just two sets in six matches.
But the level suddenly dropped on Sunday, and Djokovic’s game looked unrecognisable with failed attempts to come to the net and handfuls of unforced errors.
What was expected to be an enthralling sequel got off to the most dramatic of beginnings – a 14-minute service game from Djokovic, who saved four break points before finally going behind.
Alcaraz’s confident start continued, while a rare double fault from Djokovic gifted a double break that allowed the Spanish third seed to calmly see out the opener.
It was a case of deja vu for the Serb in the second set, with Alcaraz landing delicate drop volleys and booming winners to break early before benefiting from another Djokovic double fault.
Still toiling, Djokovic managed to hold firm in the third until Alcaraz struck to lead 5-4 and give himself a chance to serve out for the title.
But the 21-year-old double-faulted on his first match point, fired into the net on his second and then sent the ball wide on his third – helping Djokovic to claw a break back and force a tie-break.
At that point, prospects of a remarkable comeback and thrilling finish quickly vanished as Alcaraz took control.
“It obviously was not the result I wanted, but of course in the first couple of sets the level of tennis wasn’t up to par from my side,” Djokovic said.
“It wasn’t meant to be. I tried to extend the match, but he was an absolute deserved winner today so congratulations for him.”
