‘I have grown up so much’ – Carlos Alcaraz reveals the key to rapid rise
Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz has revealed the key to his recent rise and success on the ATP tour, arguing that it is not just his physical fitness which he has improved.
Throughout 2022 the tenacious teen has consistently broken records and hit new heights. Most recently he captured his fourth career title at the Barcelona Open last week and as a result broke into the top ten of the ATP rankings for the first time.
Before that, he also won record-breaking titles at the Rio Open and at the Miami Masters, where the 18-year-old became the youngest ever Miami Open champion and the third youngest Masters-level winner in history.
Carlos Alcaraz arrives in Madrid this week in red hot form, with the hope of winning back-to-back Masters titles for the first time in his career.
The new world number nine and seventh seed in the tournament now has a 23-3 for the season and is third in the ATP Race To Turin.
Speaking this week in Madrid, Alcaraz reflected on his rapid rise, believing the key to his success is the development of his mental fortitude.
Alcaraz told reporters, “I think that as a player I have grown a lot, [and also] as a person.
“Last year I came here to live these kinds of matches, to be able to gain some experience, to be able to level myself against the best players in the world. Now I consider myself one of them.
“I would say my fitness has been important but definitely the most important part has been the mental game. I feel I have grown up so much in that part.
“That is why I am the world number nine right now and that is why I am playing at a good level. That is why I have been able to win great matches, so I think [my mentality] is the most important thing.”
He also discussed the expectations of him and believed that despite feeling pressure especially in front of a home crowd, he said he relishes the opportunity to compete in his native homeland.
“It’s not easy to play at home,” he said. “There is a lot of expectation, a lot of people that want to see you doing it well.
“But I’m a player that turns things around. I take that as a motivation, as an extra punch, extra help.
“I am really excited to be competing here. It is great to play in Spain in front of my home crowd. I try not to think about the pressure. I just try and think about myself and play my best on court. I am trying to have a great time with the crowd pushing me up. I don’t try and think about the expectations.”
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