Alcaraz 'Trying To Understand Who He Is' And Has 'Weight On His Young Shoulders'
NewsSunday, 23 March 2025 at 12:04
Two-time French Open runner-up Alex Corretja has given his evaluation of Carlos Alcaraz and his recent struggles.
Alcaraz lost in three sets to the experienced David Goffin in the round of 64 at the 2025 Miami Open. Although the match was of high quality for lengthy periods, the Spaniard made several unforced errors, including 28 with his forehand.
Corretja knows Alcaraz well and interviewed him after the 21-year-old's brutal loss in the Olympic gold medal match to Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz cried during the interview while attempting to talk.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Corretja reminded fans that Alcaraz is still a young player, a fact that is easily forgotten because of his exceptional achievements to date, including winning four Grand Slam titles.
"For me, everything is very abrupt with Alcaraz. Everything happened so quickly. He is still searching and trying to understand who he is, he is still figuring out what the circuit is and what life is on it. Alcaraz has become a world star in the media and, therefore, has a very difficult weight on his young shoulders."
"Yes, he wins titles. If he earns money, we all know that he’s privileged. But the toll that comes with that, to become someone so powerful for the brands, for the fans, for everything that comes with it, now he has a series that has been made for him, a documentary, all the exhibitions, all this has a wear and tear."
"It has physical wear and tear, but it has tremendous emotional wear and tear. And that’s what I think he and his team are trying to find a balance, so that when the important tournaments come, he’s at 100%."
The former ATP world No. 2 thinks Alcaraz is still learning to win more consistently when not at his best. There have been examples of him doing that, including at the 2024 French Open, but it is an area where he can improve.
"I believe that Alcaraz cannot lose his DNA, he cannot lose his personality, but he will have to understand that life will not always be joy, he will not always be able to have a good time, he will not always be able to enjoy himself, to laugh and say: 'Well, that is when I am at my best.'"
"There are days when he will not be able to do that. And I think there have been moments, especially last year, at Roland Garros, when he accepted it very well. But then, during the season, if he plays 70, 80 matches plus the others with commitments, there will be times when he will have to tighten his belt and accept that that day he simply has to win, maybe without feeling so brilliant."
"What happens when that doesn’t happen? I think that generates some anxiety, some nerves. And that’s why I think he will have to find a balance, to say: 'OK, I have my flashy game, my creativity, but realistically, what do I need to win today?'"
Alcaraz now has a chance to rest before the clay court season begins. His first tournament will be at the 2025 Monte Carlo Masters, starting on April 7th.
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