Carlos Alcaraz truth exposed in telling image from Royal Box at Wimbledon

If tennis fans wanted to know where the Royal allegiances lay for the men's final at Wimbledon, then images from the Royal Box after Carlos Alcaraz's incredible victory provided compelling evidence. The 20-year-old Spaniard stopped Novak Djokovic from clinching a fifth straight title at the All England Club after a pulsating 1-6, 7-6 (8/6), 6-1, 3-6, 6-4 victory on Centre Court.

Alcaraz - who retains his World No.1 status after claiming the second grand slam title of his career - is an immensely popular champion and enjoyed the lion's share of crowd support during the epic four hour and 42 minute tussle. Among those cheering for the newly crowned champion was King Felipe VI, who could be seen giving his compatriot a thumbs-up from the Royal Box.

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However, it was the actions of the British Royals - usually known for their neutrality at Wimbledon - that raised eyebrows. Princess Kate's role as patron of the All England club means she prides herself on remaining impartial during matches, but the same couldn't be said for her children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

When Alcaraz completed the epic five-set victory over the seven-time champion, the young British Royals could be seen pumping their fists and raising their arms as they roared out in delight for the champion. The telling moment sent social media into overdrive, as fans responded to the break from Royal protocol.

Crowd erupts after Carlos Alcaraz win

The reaction from the Royals was indicative of the much of the sentiment around Centre Court, where the crowd erupted after Alcaraz completed what many thought to an almost impossible task in tennis. After all, Djokovic hadn't tasted defeat on Centre Court since the 2010 final and was on a 34-match winning streak at The All England Club.

There were stirring scenes after the final point as Alcaraz collapsed onto the iconic turf and the crowd rose as one to celebrate the third youngest men's winner in Wimbledon history - and perhaps a changing of the guard. "Beating Novak at his best, in this stage, making history, being the guy to beat him after 10 years unbeaten on that court, is amazing for me. It's great for the new generation, as well, to see me beating him and making them think that they are capable to do it as well."

The 20-year-old showed his class in a humble victory speech in which he revealed the impact Djokovic had made on his own career. "To play a legend in our sport, for a boy, 20 years old, I am really proud," he told Centre Court. Turning to Djokovic he then said: "I started playing tennis watching you. Since I was born, you were winning tournaments."

Novak Djokovic praises 'complete' Carlos Alcaraz

Despite a couple of code violations, a racquet smash and an argument with the chair umpire during a drama-charged final, Djokovic was also praised for his humble runner-up speech. At one point he broke down addressing his son. In his post-match press conference though, Djokovic was quick to acknowledge that he had been beaten by an undeniable talent and a "complete player" the likes of which the Serb has never seen.

“I think people have been talking in the past 12 months or so about [Alcaraz’s] game consisting of certain elements from Roger, Rafa, and myself. I would agree with that. I think he's got basically best of all three worlds,” Djokovic said.

“He's got this mental resilience and really maturity for someone who is 20 years old. It's quite impressive. He's got this Spanish bull mentality of competitiveness and fighting spirit and incredible defence that we've seen with Rafa over the years. And I think he's got some nice sliding backhands that he's got some similarities with my backhands. The two-handed backhands, defence, being able to adapt. I think that has been my personal strength for many years. He has it, too.

“I haven't played a player like him ever, to be honest. Roger and Rafa have their own obvious strengths and weaknesses. Carlos is a very complete player. Amazing adapting capabilities that I think are a key for longevity and for a successful career on all surfaces.”

with agencies

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