Carlos Alcaraz has been advised by former world No. 1 Andy Roddick to prioritize his well-being and career by becoming “a little more selfish.” Roddick’s comments come as the Spanish star prepares for the 2025 Australian Open amidst a demanding off-season schedule.
Alcaraz, the world No. 3, has spent 36 weeks at the top of the ATP Rankings and already boasts four Grand Slam titles. As one of tennis’s brightest stars, the 21-year-old seeks to become the youngest man in the Open Era to achieve a Career Grand Slam by winning in Melbourne.
However, his preparations have been impacted by a busy off-season that included exhibition matches in New York and Charlotte, alongside prior commitments to events like the Laver Cup and Six Kings Slam. Critics have questioned his packed schedule, suggesting it hampers his ability to rest and train effectively.
Speaking on Served with Andy Roddick, the 2003 US Open champion explained Alcaraz’s challenge in managing his growing fame. “He’s one of the biggest stars in world sport, but he doesn’t say no to anyone. He has to learn to prioritize himself,” said Roddick.
Roddick compared Alcaraz’s celebrity status to that of tennis legends Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic, emphasizing the Spaniard’s magnetic appeal. However, he warned that the young star must balance public expectations with personal health and career longevity.
Alcaraz will not play any warm-up tournaments before the Australian Open, which starts on January 12th. Entering as the third seed behind Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev, he aims to surpass his previous best result of a quarter-final appearance in Melbourne.
A victory at the Australian Open would see Alcaraz eclipse Rafael Nadal’s record as the youngest man to complete the Career Grand Slam, a milestone Nadal reached at 24 years old. Only five men, including Nadal, Djokovic, Federer, Agassi, and Rod Laver, have achieved this prestigious feat.
As Alcaraz continues to navigate the pressures of his burgeoning career, Roddick’s advice highlights the importance of striking a balance between public expectations and personal priorities.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Ranked no.3, Carlos played his last match on the 19th of November when he beat world no.40 Tallon Griekspoor 7-6(0) 6-3 in the Rubber 2 of the Davis Cup (draw).
Presently, during this year Carlos owns a compiled 54-13 win-loss record. Alcaraz has won 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. The Spaniard reached the final in Paris.
Carlos Alcaraz will square off with the world no.364 Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . In the past, they have never competed against each other up to now in top events.
The Spaniard has won 4 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. Carlos got to the final in Paris (Olympics).
Carlos won 17 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Carlos Alcaraz |
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