Djokovic defends Alcaraz

The absence of Alcaraz caused Spain to lose 0-3 to the Czech Republic in the first match of the group stage on September 12. Bernabe Zapata Miralles and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina were disappointing when they quickly lost two singles matches. Davidovich Fokina then paired with Marcel Granollers and continued to lose the doubles match.

Host Spain is temporarily ranked at the bottom of Group C of Davis Cup Finals, the group also includes Serbia and South Korea. The top two teams will qualify for the quarterfinals. This country's media said that everything would have been easier if Alcaraz had not decided to withdraw last week.

When asked about Alcaraz's withdrawal from the Davis Cup, Djokovic expressed sympathy. He said: "Alcaraz played for Spain last year, just a few days after winning the US Open. He has a lot of time ahead of him. I myself have skipped the Davis Cup many times and had to face Many negative reactions. It's very difficult to always be perfect, always ready."

Djokovic believes that Alcaraz is only 20 years old but is not a superman. "To be honest, Alcaraz's absence is advantageous for Serbia," he said. "Everyone needs to rest and Alcaraz is no exception. I am sure he will contribute to Spain whenever possible. He will return and bring joy to Spain."

In the opening match, Serbia won 3-0 without Djokovic appearing, thanks to Dusan Lajovic, Laslo Djere and the pair Nikola Cacic/Mimomir Kecmanovic. Djokovic is scheduled to play today, when Serbia faces host Spain. The 36-year-old tennis player just won the US Open but decided to return to the team after a year of absence.

Djokovic replaced Alcaraz at number one in the ATP after winning the US Open on September 10. He admitted that he was tired after many consecutive matches but wanted to contribute to the national team. "I have to try to recover and maintain intensity to earn points for the team," he said.

Serbia won the Davis Cup for the only time in 2010 with Djokovic's major contribution. They then lost the 2013 final despite Djokovic winning both singles matches.