We interviewed the Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz number 2 in the world, prior to the Acapulco Mexican Tennis Open.
By Marimar Barrientos
IN EXCLUSIVE CARLOS ALCARAZ
When you arrived at the Mexican Tennis Open for the first time, at the age of 17, you were close to reaching the top 100 in the ATP ranking. Now, at 19, you top this list. How does Carlos feel today facing Acapulco, compared to the young man who arrived in 2021?
C: I am the same Carlos, but I have improved as a tennis player, I have changed physically and I have achieved great results in a very short time. I have had a rapid evolution, but I am still at the beginning of my career. I still have a lot to do and learn.
What impression has Mexico and its people left on you and what expectations do you have for the tournament?
C: Very good. Mexico is a special place with a devoted audience that makes you feel supported at all times. I really want to play against them again this season. And I love Mexican food!
You have become an idol for youth around the world, but especially in Spanish-speaking countries. How do you handle the responsibility of knowing that there are so many guys who follow every step you take?
More than a responsibility, it is a privilege, but I carry it naturally. I think the most important thing is not to lose the essence, neither on the track nor off it.
What you’ve achieved in New York is just the beginning and we’re sure you’ll be lifting all the major trophies very soon, but is there any particular tournament you’re looking forward to winning this year?
C: All the tournaments that I will play have something special, but the objective is to be able to have a great season. My mentality remains the same: give 100% in every event that I compete to try to go as far as possible.
What is your relationship like off the slopes with the other youngsters on the circuit: Casper, Stefanos, ‘Sascha’…?
C: It’s very good. In the end, we see each other for many weeks of the year all over the world and we share many moments together. We get along well, even though we are competing for the same goals.
You are first and Rafa second; Pablo is thirteenth. From your perspective, what is being done well in Spain to have results like these?
We are a country that has a great tennis tradition for a long time, with great champions who have won everything. I think that makes kids want to play, to choose a racket over other sports. And the work that is done in grassroots tennis is very good, and essential for great players to appear.
When you have a few days off and come home, away from the noise and the spotlight, what do you do to relax?
C: When I return to El Palmar I like to do the normal things for a boy my age: be with my friends, play golf, go out to dinner…
For those who play tennis at a recreational level and want to improve their performance, what is the first piece of advice you would give them?
Have fun and have a good time playing. That is the most important thing of all, and the only advice I would give.
