Carlos Alcaraz: I did it for myself, not for the tennis generation

July 18, 2023

ATP Tennis Players, Carlos Alcaraz, Tennis News, Wimbledon

Carlos Alcaraz: I did it for myself, not for the tennis generation

Carlos Alcaraz has admitted that his maiden Wimbledon triumph over Novak Djokovic was not about proving a point for the next-generation of ATP players.

Alcaraz became the first man to beat Djokovic at Wimbledon since 2017 on Sunday, after winning a thrilling five-set contest, 1-6 7-6(6) 6-1 3-6 6-4.

In his post-match press conference, the 20-year-old was asked about whether he saw this as a changing of the guard moment.

This was how Alcaraz responded, “Well, I did it for myself, not for tennis generation, honestly. It was great. Beating Novak at his best, in this stage, making history, being the guy to beat him after 10 years unbeaten on that court, is amazing for me.

“It’s something that I will never forget, that’s for sure. As I said, it’s great for the new generation, as well, I think to see me beating him and making them think that they are capable to do it, as well. It’s great for me and I think for the young players, as well.”

Wimbledon was the second consecutive major that Alcaraz had played Djokovic, however their Roland Garros semi-final ended awkwardly with the Spaniard struggling with cramp.

Alcaraz spoke about how his preparation was different coming into the Wimbledon final, “I am a different player than the French Open. I grew up a lot since that moment and I learned a lot from that moment.

“I prepared a little bit differently mentally before the match so I could deal with the pressure and the nerves better than I did at the French Open. I think it was the mental part that allowed me to stay there during the five sets.”

The ATP No.1 labelled his victory over Djokovic as ‘the biggest moment’ of his life, while suggesting that it definitely could change in the future.

“Right now it is the happiest moment of my life. Probably in five years, it will change,” claimed Alcaraz. “I’m 20, I haven’t experienced too many situations like this, so I’m going to enjoy this moment. Making history that I did. Beating Novak and winning Wimbledon is something that I dream about since I started playing tennis. That’s why this is the biggest moment of my life.”

A lifelong dream! 🏆💚 You always have to believe! I'm only 20 years old, everything is happening too fast, but I'm very proud of how we work every day. Thank you everyone for your support, from the bottom of my heart! 🙌🏻😍 @Wimbledon
📸 Getty pic.twitter.com/MsdjFqBhiO
— Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) July 16, 2023

Alcaraz is currently listed to represent Spain at the Hopman Cup this weekend, however that seems increasingly unlikely after a busy grass court season.

Carlos Alcaraz Career Achievements at 20

Following winning his maiden title at SW19, we at Tennishead wanted to marvel at Alcaraz’s long list of achievements in his young career:

Career-high ranking: No.1 (29 weeks*)

ATP Titles: 12 (2021 – Umag, 2022 – Rio de Janeiro, Miami, Barcelona, Madrid, US Open, 2023 – Buenos Aires, Indian Wells, Barcelona, Madrid, Queen’s & Wimbledon)

Grand Slam titles: 2 (US Open 2022 & Wimbledon 2023)

Masters 1000 titles: 4 (2022 – Miami & Madrid, 2023 – Indian Wells & Madrid)

*Current ATP No.1

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