“I Wasn’t Always Strong Mentally as a Kid” – Carlos Alcaraz Opens Up on How He Has Balanced ‘Cojones’ and Heart
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via Reuters
Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – May 27, 2022 Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz celebrates winning his third round match against Sebastian Korda of the U.S. REUTERS/Yves Herman
With his latest accomplishment, Carlos Alcaraz has registered his name in the history books. The young Spanish star won his first ever Grand Slam tournament at the age of 19 after he beat Casper Ruud in the US Open final earlier today.
Alcaraz defeated his Norwegian opponent 6-4, 2-6, 7-6, 6-3. And with that, he also managed to top the rankings, becoming the youngest No.1 player in the world.
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Carlos Alcaraz speaking on his mental strength
After the finals, Alcaraz explained the mental side of things and the ability to maintain mental balance throughout the tournament.
Alcaraz in Spanish. “I won’t change. I will arrive to Spain and meet my family, friends and celebrate with them. For me it’s pretty clear that I have to keep working to win more titles and stay on top.”
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) September 12, 2022
“The three elements are super important. The level of all that was very high. I surprised myself with how strong I was mentally. After losing the 3rd set vs. Sinner, after losing the 4th vs. Tiafoe. I stayed tough. I wasn’t always strong mentally as a kid. It’s incredible to be the youngest #1 ever.” said the young man.
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He further said, “But it’s much more tougher what the Big 3 is doing: stay on top for 20 years. That’s what I’m looking for. I don’t wanna compare myself to them, but I wanna be like them.”
At 16 years of age, Alcaraz earned a wildcard entry into the ATP singles main draw at the Rio Open 2020. That was his first-ever appearance in the ATP main draw. Initially, he beat Albert Ramos Vinolas. However, Federico Coria knocked out Alcaraz in the second round.
The tough road that paved the way
There have been challenges along Alcaraz’s path. While other athletes may try to forget those tough times, Alcaraz instead told the world how he really felt.
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He lost his first match against Tommy Paul last month in Montreal. And it was a tough loss for someone who had already won the Masters 1000 twice.
Carlos Alcaraz Joins Legendary Compatriot Rafael Nadal’s Club Following US Open 2022 Success
A month later, Alcaraz bravely faced the pressure of competing in a Grand Slam final in the quest to become World No. 1. At the US Open, the Spaniard won three consecutive matches that went down to the wire, including a breathtaking victory over Jannik Sinner in the quarterfinals.
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WATCH THE STORY: Carlos Alcaraz the sensational new kid on the block
But that didn’t worry him. After the quarterfinals, he still had that wide smile going, getting him to where he is right now.
Written by:
Edited by:
Ankit Sharma