Maturity & Experience: Alcaraz Declares His Game Hasn't Changed But Something Did
ATP
Carlos Alcaraz wants to have fun in the Spanish capital and entertain people there which he certainly did last year with an impressive win.
Alcaraz returns to Madrid with an established resume of a Grand Slam champion and a number-one ranking as well. He wasn't either of those things one year ago when he defeated Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic back-to-back en route to a final where he downed Alexander Zverev as well.
He's still the same player tennis-wise and personality-wise but he matured a lot in the past year, at least according to his own words as he disclosed ahead of the 2023 Madrid Open, where he will start as the first-seeded player in the draw.
My game hasn’t changed much over the last year. It’s been a time in which I’ve had some good moments and others not so good. The difference from last year’s Carlos to this year is maturity and experience.
Just like last year Alcaraz arrives in Madrid after lifting the trophy in Barcelona. There were some impressive moments at that event and he hopes to bring that same joy this week. He loves to play tennis and it's reflected in his style and his demeanour on the court.
My style of game is very lively, doing different things. The smile comes from within when I’m enjoying myself. With my team, when I’m feeling frustrated, we have a little joke about something to make me smile and change my perspective on the match.
Despite playing in Barcelona, Alcaraz doesn't feel any fatigue. He's ready to go and quite excited because Madrid suits his style of play. The ball flies really quickly and he loves to attack so that's a match made in heaven.
Physically, I feel good, I feel 100%. I can’t wait to get going in Madrid. With the level I produced in Barcelona, winning the title, I’m coming here with a lot of confidence. We all know it’s difficult to adapt to Madrid, but we have a few days before we start. I really can’t wait.
