Fearless Alcaraz can show next-gen how to topple Djokovic, say sports psychology experts

BENGALURU : As the all-conquering Novak Djokovic continues to cast a shadow on the next generation, teenager Carlos Alcaraz's fearless approach marks him out as a player with the potential to dethrone him, sports psychology experts have told Reuters.

Djokovic will turn 36 in May but has barely slowed down and outclassed Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets in the Australian Open final last month to capture a record-extending 10th crown at Melbourne Park.

The Serbian mowed down significantly younger rivals en route to his 22nd Grand Slam title, all the while managing a hamstring tear, prompting his coach Goran Ivanisevic to say he could rule the sport for a few more years.

Djokovic is now into his 378th week as the world number one, surpassing Steffi Graf's record for the most weeks at the top of the sport, a feat that prompted some of his young rivals to express adoration and back him to break more records.

Florida-based Patrick Cohn, who teaches mental skills and sports psychology techniques to professional athletes, said he was not surprised Djokovic was still dominating the next generation.

"The tennis greats can be intimidating to younger players who idolised them growing up," said Cohn, who has worked with tennis players, NASCAR drivers, the Miami Dolphins as well as golfers on the PGA Tour.

Cohn believes young players must rely on better preparation, tactics and develop a stronger mental game to topple Djokovic.

"They have to believe he's not a god and they can win," Cohn added. "They have to be mindful of putting him on a pedestal and thinking he can't be beat.

"When playing a top player, the only thing that's important is tactics and mindset, not the fact that he's won several Grand Slams. I suggest to younger players