"I don't consider myself to be famous" claims Carlos Alcaraz
ATP
Three-time champion in 2022, Carlos Alcaraz is one of the brightest stars on the ATP Tour in 2022, but the young Spaniard claims he doesn't consider himself to be famous.
Alcaraz has been one of the brightest stars on the ATP Tour in 2022. At the moment, the Spaniard is counting down the days before he competes in the 2022 Madrid Open, where he will have unwavering fan support.
It will be the first time the Murcia native fights in his home country as a member of the top ten in the world, and all eyes will be on him. Before taking to the Caja Mágica's clay, Alcaraz appeared on El Hormiguero, one of Spain's most popular television shows, for some lighthearted banter and to enable his legions of admirers to get to know him better.
As his career advances, 18-year-old Alcaraz will have to adjust to a new level of celebrity, but he doesn't seem to be bothered by being well-known, staying true to his self.
"I handle it quite well. I tell everyone I don’t consider myself to be famous. When I get recognised, I take it in stride. The team is there to tell me about the bad things and although it frustrates me, it’s better for me."
His coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, who battled also one of current Alcaraz's rivals, Rafael Nadal, in his playing days, was also involved in making the Spanish teenager the person that he is today, at least according to the youngster's words.
"At first it was tough. I was very difficult. Juan Carlos had a tough time, because I was really disorganised. And I still am, just a bit less! I didn’t control my emotions well and I didn’t have my head straight."
Still a teenager, Alcaraz's bank account is growing by hundreds of thousands every week, but he doesn't spend a lot of money, as his parents still look after it.
"Of course, my parents look after the money. To buy myself golf clubs, which I love, I don’t ask them for permission, but I do for a good car. I’m still fighting against it. My father is tougher and my mother less so, so for going out and things like that I tell my mother."
"I don’t have to be back at a certain time exactly, but they always say ‘Don’t be back late’. As hard as I try not to make any noise when I get home, I always wake them up and they catch me.'"
