“Fine line between courage & stupidity”: Naomi Osaka’s coach on Carlos Alcaraz amid ‘no plan B’ criticism

Rick Macci praised Carlos Alcaraz's versatile game, addressing critics who claim he lacks adaptability under pressure or "Plan B."

Fine Line Between Courage & Stupidity: Naomi Osaka's Coach On Carlos Alcaraz Amid 'no Plan B' Criticism

Renowned tennis coach Rick Macci, who has worked with multiple tennis stars, including Naomi Osaka, shared his perspective on Carlos Alcaraz, addressing the criticism surrounding the young Spaniard’s lack of a “Plan B” during tough matches.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Macci responded to claims that Alcaraz struggles to adapt when his primary strategy falters. “Carlos Alcaraz’s game is more complex than any player because his talent level delivers many different items on the menu,” Macci wrote. “Critics say he has no Plan B. He has Plan A, B, and C! When you have unique options, there is a fine line between courage and stupidity.”

Macci’s comments come amid remarks from Andrea Petkovic, who highlighted Alcaraz’s inconsistency in certain situations. “The one quibble I have with Carlos is what the others don’t have—Zverev doesn’t have, even Taylor Fritz doesn’t have, Jannik Sinner definitely doesn’t have, Novak Djokovic definitely doesn’t have. When Carlos is bad, he is f*cking horrendous. He doesn’t have a Plan B,” Petkovic said.

Despite the criticism, Macci emphasized the extraordinary depth and versatility in Alcaraz’s game, attributing it to his immense talent and creative style of play. The 20-year-old has gained recognition for his fearless approach, executing high-risk shots in critical moments, often with jaw-dropping success.

Alcaraz, known for his dynamic and aggressive playing style, continues to captivate the tennis world as he navigates the challenges of maintaining consistency and adapting strategies on the court.

Carlos Alcaraz in 2025

Carlos Alcaraz

54 - 13win/loss

Hard
22-5
I Hard
7-3
Clay
17-4
Grass
8-1
21 year old
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2024 Highlights

At the moment ranked no.3, Alcaraz played his last match on the 19th of November 2024 when he defeated Tallon Griekspoor 7-6(0) 6-3 in the Rubber 2 of the Davis Cup (draw).

Currently, during this season Carlos owns a compiled 54-13 match record.

Carlos Alcaraz will fight against Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . They have never competed against each other as of now in top events.

Alcaraz 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)

He is also scheduled to play at the Australian Open (Australian Open) on the 12th of January and () on the 13th of January.

Alcaraz
Davis Cup
Alcaraz's Record

Carlos Alcaraz

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