Key Takeaways
- Carlos Alcaraz expressed relief over his physical condition after his loss to Ben Shelton, stating that “getting back home healthy is the most important thing.”
- Despite exiting in a match that lasted over four hours, Alcaraz took a positive view, remarking that “we’re leaving very happy; we’ve walked off the court smiling.”
- Following four months out due to injury, the seven-time Grand Slam winner confirmed his desire to resume training ahead of his planned appearance at the Laver Cup.
Positive outlook after late-night New York thriller
Despite the bitter sting of a dramatic loss to Ben Shelton, Carlos Alcaraz maintained an upbeat perspective following an intense battle under the lights in New York. The two competitors clashed for well over four hours deep into the night, ending in a warm embrace at the net that highlighted their mutual respect.
The defeat concluded a busy week and a half for the Spaniard, who had previously been sidelined for four months due to injury. Reflecting on the result in a conversation with compatriot Alex Corretja, the seven-time Grand Slam champion emphasized how grateful he was to be back in action.
“We’re leaving very happy; we’ve walked off the court smiling. It’s not pleasant to lose, but you have to see the positive side of matches like these,” Alcaraz explained when evaluating the encounter.
Prioritizing health and future preparations
For Alcaraz, the thrill of competing at the highest level again outweighed the immediate disappointment of the scoreboard. The Spaniard was eager to embrace the experience of high-stakes tennis after his prolonged absence from the tour.
“In the end, you play for matches like this one,” Alcaraz stated. “I’m eager to get back home, to train, to compete, and in the end, this is what we’ve been missing, and getting back home healthy is the most important thing.”
Alcaraz also took the opportunity to shower praise on Shelton, particularly highlighting the American’s formidable serve. With his physical condition holding up through a grueling four-hour test, the Spaniard’s focus quickly turns to the remaining stretch of the 2026 campaign.
The Spaniard is scheduled to return to competitive play at the Laver Cup at the end of September. That event will provide further match practice ahead of the upcoming Asian swing, offering him an opportunity to build momentum in a part of the season where he has faced challenges in the past.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2026
Now the world no.3, Alcaraz played his last match on the 8th of September when he was overcome by world no.9 Ben Shelton 6-7(5) 6-1 6-3 1-6 7-6 in the quarter of the U.S. Open (draw).
During this season Carlos owns a compiled 26-5 win-loss record. The Spaniard has won 2 titles in 2026 at the Australian Open and Doha.
