Pilic, the 1973 French Open runner-up, commended Alcaraz’s game but pointed out the toll injuries have taken on the 20-year-old. Alcaraz faced setbacks, including an abdominal muscle tear in 2022 and a right leg injury that forced him to miss the 2023 Australian Open.
Despite a stellar 2023 season, winning six titles, including Wimbledon, and securing the world No. 2 ranking, Alcaraz faced minor issues, such as skipping the Swiss Indoors due to concerns with his left foot and lower back.
In an exhibition clash, Alcaraz suffered a defeat against world No. 10 Alex de Minaur, raising questions about his physical resilience. The young Spaniard, seeded second at the 2024 Australian Open, is set to face Richard Gasquet in the opening round.
Pilic, acknowledging Alcaraz as the potential successor to the ‘big three’ (Djokovic, Nadal, Federer), expressed concern over the sustainability of his career, stating, “But, that his body is wasted, that is true. How many injuries has he had so far? Regardless, [he] plays great.”
Additionally, Pilic criticized the decision to name Darren Cahill as the 2023 ATP Coach of the Year over Goran Ivanisevic, Djokovic’s coach. Pilic questioned the award given to Cahill, emphasizing the importance of Grand Slam victories in determining coaching excellence.
“Jannik Sinner is a good player, but he has not won any Grand Slam. And now his coach, [the] Australian Darren Cahill, gets the trophy as the best coach, not Goran? So how far does it go, tell me?!” Pilic proclaimed.
As Alcaraz prepares for the Australian Open, these concerns add an intriguing layer to his journey, with the tennis world keeping a watchful eye on his physical condition and performances in the upcoming tournament.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
WLWLLWLWWW Now the world no.2, Alcaraz played his last match on the 18th of November 2023 when he was defeated by world no.1 Novak Djokovic 6-3 6-2 in the semifinal in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This season Alcaraz owns a composed 65-12 record.
Alcaraz will compete next at the Australian Open (Australian Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 14th of January.
Carlos Alcaraz |
| Embed from Getty Images |
