In an unexpected turn on the night of the prestigiousLaureus World Sports Awards 2025Carlos Alcaraz, the young Spanish tennis prodigy, flatly refused to award the prize ofAthlete of the yearTo Novak Djokovic, despite the expectations that the Serbian once again won the award. Alcaraz’s refusal and his harsh words about his colleague surprised attendees, leaving a tense atmosphere in the gala.
Alcaraz, who had been one of the favorites to take the prize toAthlete of the yearThanks to his impressive season, he surprised everyone when, at the time of delivering the award to Djokovic, he said: “I cannot reward someone who does not consider a good person.” The phrase resonated throughout the room and quickly became a hot topic on social networks.
The young tennis player, known for his exceptional talent on the court and his humble personality outside it, expressed his dissatisfaction with Djokovic’s attitude in recent years. “Although he respects his career and everything he has achieved in tennis, I cannot ignore how he has behaved outside the court. There is more in sport than only winning matches. Attitude and respect for others are fundamental. Therefore, this award is not for him,” said Alcaraz, visibly affected by the situation.
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Novak Djokovic’s reaction to Alcaraz’s words was as surprising as the Spanish decision. Instead of reacting with anger or disdain, the Serbian responded in a calm and reflective way, something that surprised many of those present at the gala. “Carlos has the right to his opinion,” said Djokovic. “If you feel that my actions are not up to par.
The calm with which Djokovic handled the situation surprised the attendees, who expected a more emotional response, given the nature of the accusations. Instead of becoming an open conflict, the situation was handled with mutual respect, although the tension remained palpable in the environment.
The confrontation between Alcaraz and Djokovic is not something completely new. Although both players have had a professional relationship and shared the court on several occasions, personality differences and tennis approaches have been a topic of recurrent conversation in recent months.
Alcaraz, who has been praised for his humility and positive approach on and off the court, seems to have taken a firm posture about the values he considers essential in sport. In comparison, Djokovic has sometimes been criticized for his attitude, both during the parties and in his public statements, especially in relation to his opinions about vaccines and his approach to competition. Despite their success on the court, some consider that Djokovic’s behavior sometimes does not reflect the ideals of respect and sportsmanship that many tennis fans value.
In a recent interview, Alcaraz commented that, although he respects Djokovic’s career, he does not always agree with his way of being, especially when it comes to how he behaves with his circuit companions. “He is a great champion, but not everything is trophies. Mutual respect is what really matters, and that is a lesson that always try to teach,” Alcaraz said.
Alcaraz’s decision not to reward Djokovic has divided public opinion. Some fans have expressed their support for Alcaraz, considering that their position is an example of integrity and responsibility within the world of sport. “Carlos is right. Tennis is more than just being the best. It is a life lesson, and respect is essential,” said Alcaraz follower on Twitter.
On the other hand, Djokovic followers have criticized Alcaraz for their attitude towards one of the most successful players of all time. “I don’t understand how Carlos can say that about a player who has opened so many doors. Djokovic has been a model of success and determination, and this does not reflect it,” said a fan in the networks.
This incident has highlighted the growing rivalry between Alcaraz and Djokovic, a rivalry that could continue to grow as both players continue to dominate the ATP circuit. Despite the tension, this conflict may drive both players to improve and offer more exciting moments for tennis fans in the future.
Alcaraz, with his sincerity and focus on values, is making it clear that, for him, being a good human being is as important as being a good athlete. For his part, Djokovic, with his calm response, has shown that maturity and respect are essential even when he faces direct criticism.
Alcaraz’s decision and Djokovic’s response mark a turning point in the relationship between the two great tennis players. Is this the beginning of a new fierce rivalry or an opportunity for both players to learn to respect more the opinions and differences of others? Only time will say it. Meanwhile, tennis fans will continue to observe carefully how this story develops on and off the court.
