Alcaraz Explains Decision Behind Skipping Practice At US Open
Carlos Alcaraz's decision to skip practice days at the US Open has caused confusion and intrigue.
It comes after the ATP's world number one employed the same tactic leading up to his upcoming quarter-final match against Alexander Zverev. Alcaraz has shown his consistency yet again so far at the 2023 US Open as the Spanish player raced to the final eight and dropped just one set in the process.
In the round of 16, Alcaraz was on top form as he brushed aside Matteo Arnaldi in straight sets to set up a quarter-final tie against Zverev. However, despite on-court success, one of the 20-year-old's preparation techniques has sparked interest among fans and commentators - skipping practice.
Before the victory over Arnaldi and ahead of his clash with Zverev on Wednesday, Alcaraz was not training on the courts, and the world number one explained to the official ATP website his reasoning behind the move.
"There are days when I dedicate my time to fitness and not tennis,”
“There are a lot of days when I prefer to work on load training and fitness, rather than practise tennis.”
Alcaraz's explanation will help to ease rumours about his fitness as the final stages of the US Open loom. Question marks were raised about the Spanish player's physical condition after he was seen with tape on his leg during the match against Arnaldi, but he dismissed this as nothing worrying.
Moreover, 2023 is not the first time Alcaraz has opted for a day off the practice courts in favour of the gym. On the way to his first-ever Grand Slam title at last year's US Open, the 20-year-old regularly missed his practice days after a gruelling run to the trophy, which included several five-set contests against the likes of Marin Cilic, Jannik Sinner and Frances Tiafoe.
Ultimately, the decision appears to be paying off as Alcaraz currently has a 15-1 record at Flushing Meadows during his professional career.
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