Carlos Alcaraz expressed heartfelt gratitude and hope for a long-lasting partnership as he commemorated the dedication of a court at Juan Carlos Ferrero’s Academy bearing his own name, symbolizing a significant milestone in his journey.

Alcaraz, often referred to affectionately as “Carlitos,” has become a familiar figure in Villena, a Spanish municipality nestled in the province of Alicante and home to the academy managed by former Spanish No. 1, Juan Carlos Ferrero. His five years spent in this southern Spanish town, inhabited by nearly 34,000 people, have been pivotal in shaping both his growth as a player and as an individual.

During a private exhibition match with Jannik Sinner, the 20-year-old Murcian athlete was at the center of a profoundly special moment. Despite his coach, Mosquito, visibly wearing a brace on his right leg following knee surgery, and the academy staff, they honored Alcaraz by symbolically dedicating one of the courts to him. Placing a plaque, albeit metaphorically – affixed to the face of a rocky block – the court will henceforth be known as ‘Pista Carlos Alcaraz.’

While this gesture may not equate to the prestige bestowed upon icons like Rafa Nadal and Nicola Pietrangeli, who had courts named after them at significant ATP events, such as the Campo Centrale at the ATP 500 in Barcelona or the revered Campo Principale at the Foro Italico, it holds immense emotional value for Carlos.

Witnessing a young champion of only 20 years receiving such an honor, an accolade that even some of the sport’s revered veterans have yet to receive, evoked profound emotions. Alcaraz’s training partner seized the opportunity to capture the ceremony with his trusty camera, encapsulating the significance of the moment.

After the jubilation subsides, it marks a return to the grind, gearing up for the upcoming Australian circuit. However, approaching this phase with a smile makes the workload lighter, emphasizing the joy and determination Alcaraz carries as he prepares for the challenges ahead.

The dedication of ‘Pista Carlos Alcaraz’ stands as a testament to his growth, both on and off the court, marking a milestone in a career destined for greatness. For Carlos, it’s not just a court bearing his name; it’s a symbol of dedication, hard work, and a promising future in the world of tennis.

Carlos Alcaraz in 2023

Currently the world no.2, Alcaraz played his last match on the 18^th of November when he surrendered to world no.1 Novak Djokovic 6-3 6-2 in the semifinal in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).

This year the Spaniard has managed to achieve an overall 65-12 win-loss record. Carlos has won 6 titles in 2023 in Buenos Aires, Indian Wells, Barcelona, Madrid, London and Wimbledon. Carlos was the runner-up in Rio de Janeiro and Cincinnati.

Alcaraz is scheduled to compete next at the Australian Open (Australian Open). He will start to play the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 14th of January.