Key Takeaways
- Dominic Thiem hailed Carlos Alcaraz as arguably the most entertaining player in tennis history.
- Alcaraz is returning to the ATP 500 tournament in Vienna for the first time since 2021 after accepting a wild card.
- The Spanish world number three is using the indoor event to rebound from an early Shanghai exit and prepare for Paris and Turin.
High praise for Carlos Alcaraz ahead of his Vienna appearance
Dominic Thiem has delivered an emphatic verdict on Carlos Alcaraz, naming the Spanish star among the most captivating figures the sport has ever seen. The former US Open winner highlighted the excitement awaiting local spectators as the world number three prepares to step onto the indoor courts in the Austrian capital.
Reflecting on the unique appeal Alcaraz brings to the tour, Thiem noted that “Carlos is probably the most entertaining player to watch in the entire history of tennis.” The Austrian elaborated on that sentiment, praising the creative shot-making, dynamic athleticism, and fearless attacking approach that have established the Spaniard as a premier attraction on the professional circuit.
Anticipation builds for Austrian indoor event
Alcaraz entered the ATP 500 tournament in Vienna via a wild card, marking his first trip back to the event since 2021. With his opening contest scheduled for October 27, the home fans are set for a rare chance to see the multiple Grand Slam winner compete on their home soil.
Thiem, who ended his own professional career in Vienna in 2024, pointed out that ticket holders are in for a special experience. The former champion noted that “everyone lucky enough to have tickets this week has so much to look forward to,” with fellow top contenders such as Alexander Zverev also featuring in the tournament draw.
A crucial stop before the season-ending tournaments
After an early exit at the Shanghai Masters, the 23-year-old Spaniard is looking to bounce back and pursue a third ATP 500 crown of the season. His appearance in Vienna serves as a key build-up for the forthcoming Paris Masters and the ATP Finals in Turin, giving Alcaraz a valuable chance to refine his indoor hard-court game.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2026
At the moment ranked no.3, the Spaniard played his last match on the 12th of October when he surrendered to world no.39 Zizou Bergs 7-5 7-6(4) in the 3rd round in Shanghai (draw).
During this season Carlos has managed to achieve an overall 33-5 record. The Spaniard conquered 3 titles in 2026 at the Australian Open, Doha and Tokyo.
