Carlos Alcaraz has already achieved more by age 22 than most players accomplish in a lifetime. With six Grand Slam titles—two at Roland Garros, two at Wimbledon and two at the US Open—the young Spaniard has established himself as one of the defining talents of his generation. Yet one glaring gap remains: the Australian Open. Despite his dominance elsewhere, Alcaraz has never progressed beyond the quarterfinals in Melbourne. It is the only Major he has not won, and he is determined to change that narrative in 2026.
Why the Australian Open has been a challenge
Speaking in comments shared by Cope Murcia, Alcaraz acknowledged that the timing of the tournament plays a major role in his struggles. The season’s first Grand Slam arrives after a long off‑season, and finding competitive rhythm quickly has proven difficult. As he explained, “My objective for 2026 is Australia, and the good and the bad thing is that it’s the first tournament of the year. We’ll try to be as ready and as well prepared as possible to show a good level and hopefully achieve the goal we want.” He elaborated further on the challenge of starting the year at full speed, noting that the issue is not the surface or conditions, but the timing. Alcaraz said, “I think because it’s the first tournament of the year. It’s about getting into rhythm. It’s not that it doesn’t suit me; it’s just that some players do better there, or when we’ve competed, it’s come down to small details.”
Confidence in his level, but aware of the missing step
Despite the early exits, Alcaraz believes his level of play in Australia has been strong. What has been missing, in his view, is the final push needed to reach the latter stages. He reflected, “I think I’ve played very good tennis in Australia; I’ve just missed that final step to go further. I believe and hope this year will be different.” This mindset reflects both confidence and realism—hallmarks of Alcaraz’s approach to competition.
Preparing early for a breakthrough in 2026
Determined to arrive in peak condition, Alcaraz has already begun his preseason training block. His focus is on building both physical and mental readiness to ensure he starts the new season at full throttle. He shared that he is excited “to work well and prepare myself physically and mentally as best as possible.” With his sights firmly set on Melbourne, Alcaraz is entering 2026 with a clear mission: complete the career sweep of all four Grand Slams.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
LWWWWLWWWW Currently the world no.1, Alcaraz played his last encounter on the 16th of November when he was defeated by world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
Currently, during this season the Spaniard has achieved a 71-9 match record. Alcaraz conquered 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. The Spaniard got to the final in Barcelona, Wimbledon and the Nitto ATP Finals.
