Carlos Alcaraz is the well-deserved World No. 1 of the ATP Tour, but even the Spaniard is working out issues with his game.
Alcaraz survived a Japan Open injury scare to defeat Sebastian Baez in straight sets to ensure a second-round place at the tournament.
Alcaraz is vying to keep World No. 1 status as Jannik Sinner continues his season at the China Open following his defeat to the Spaniard at the US Open.
After setting up a second round clash with Zizou Bergs, Alcaraz opened up about his style of play and whether his coaches are still trying to change aspects of his game.
Carlos Alcaraz reveals his struggles with ‘unnecessary shots’ at the Japan Open
After securing his place in the second round of the Japan Open, Alcaraz was asked about the origins of his inventive style of play.
“I think it came since I was a little kid. I was a skinny guy that was competing with players two or three years older than me,” said Alcaraz in his post-match press conference at the Japan Open.
“I didn’t have the strength to compete with them, so I tried to figure out how I could compete with them. That’s where my game came from,” added the Spaniard.
The star has earned a mass of fans for his incredible play on the court, but has noted that his coaches have warned him about ‘unnecessary shots’.
“After that I was trying to grow up as a player and try to be better with that same style. I love playing that way,” added Alcaraz.
“Hitting big, playing good rallies, good shots, good points, that’s what I try to do and that’s why I enjoy playing tennis. Sometimes they tell me it’s not necessary to do some shots to be honest, but If I don’t do that it’s like something is wrong.”
“I think I’m doing great shots and great things, but at the same time, I’m doing unnecessary shots. I think all things are myself and I can’t do anything about it.”
Alcaraz may still be vying for perfection, but his 2025 season has come pretty close. The World No. 1 has lost just seven matches all year, with 62 wins to his name.
Carlos Alcaraz eases injury fears after Japan Open fall
The Spaniard’s fall in the early goings of his first round match with Baez looked like it could end his tournament early.
Thankfully, Alcaraz was able to continue and he’s reassured fans that he’s still raring to go at the Japan Open.
“After all I started to feel a little bit better. I was able to walk to the bench which for me was a relief,” said Alcaraz.
“Now I’m feeling the same way, so I would say it’s great because when it cooled down I felt the same as when I was playing. It’s a great sign.”
Casper Ruud is the only seed left in Alcaraz’s side of the draw at the Japan Open, after Denis Shapovalov and Frances Tiafoe were knocked out in the first round.
