The current world number one, Carlos Alcaraz, admits even he has been taken aback by his startling ascent to the top of the sport as he enters this week’s Miami Open hoping to retain both his championship and top rating.
The 19-year-old arrived in Miami a year ago after victories on clay in Croatia and Brazil, aiming to establish himself on hard courts. His triumph in South Florida marked the start of an exceptional year.
The highlight was his US Open victory, which gave him the youngest player to reach the world number one ranking. After winning the Indian Wells event last week without losing a set, he now returns to Miami.
“Everything happened extremely quickly; when I arrived in Miami last year, I was somewhere around number 20, and now, a year later, I am entering with the top rating. It is a pretty unique thing. I achieved my goals earlier than I anticipated, “He informed the media on Tuesday.
Alcaraz must win in the Florida tournament once more in order to maintain his top ranking as a result of his triumph in Miami last year, but he claims he doesn’t feel under any pressure to do so or to live up to the increased expectations.
“I don’t really notice the pressure. I am aware of what has to be done. I must play calmly and without concern about whether I succeed or fail, “said he.
“My objective remains constant. to feel at ease on the court. must love playing tennis and make an effort to think positively while doing so. I am able to play at a high level because of this. I’m having a great time and playing casually. On the court, I am considering it “Added he.
‘YOU HAVE TO IMPROVE’
Alcaraz laments the absence of Rafael Nadal and world number two Novak Djokovic, as well as the absence of the wounded Rafael Nadal, who was denied admission to the United States owing to his lack of a COVID vaccination.
He stated, “I play tennis professionally, but I’m also a tremendous tennis fan, and I always want to watch the top players in the world, like Rafa, like Djokovic.
“I’ve played Rafa a few times, and I’d want to do it more often. I also want to play with Djokovic. I’d want to play him more often, but I definitely want them to be competing in every event, so I hope they come back soon “said he.
Alcaraz claims he is attempting to learn from the triumphs of the “Big Three” players—Djokovic, Nadal, and the now-retired Roger Federer—rather than feeling the pressure of trying to emulate them.
“You must advance, you must get better every day. The Big Three, for example, improved a little bit every day during their careers because of this “explained he.
Alcaraz can count on strong backing from the Miami audience, which includes many Spanish-speaking supporters.
It’s quite remarkable to return to this place and experience the same spirit as, say, last year, he remarked.
“There are many individuals here who support me, and they are amazing supporters. I recall how incredible it was last year, given the crowd. I feel at home, you understand “Added he.
The top seed may meet two-time Miami winner and former world number one Andy Murray in the third round after starting his title defence against the Argentine Facundo Bagnis or a qualifier.
Alcaraz said he sent Murray a message lately, during Murray’s run to the Qatar Open final, expressing his appreciation for the Scotsman.
Andy is a fantastic player and one of the Big Four, according to Alcaraz.
“It was incredible to see him compete and to pick his brain off the court. What he did to recover from surgery after being informed that he would not be able to play again is an inspiration to all of us, “said he.
