Alcaraz: “Wimbledon? nothing changes - Djokovic will be there...”
The Murcian tennis player spoke after his triumph in the Queen’s tournament. He is back as world number one heading to Wimbledon.
Beaming from ear to ear, the same smile with which he plays every point, Carlos Alcaraz lifted the Queen’s Club trophy on Sunday, beating Álex de Miñaur 6-4 6-4. The first title of his career on grass, and the one that allowed him to recover No.1 ranking before the start of Wimbledon. During his speech after the game, the Murcian said he is delighted to have his name alongside so many of the legends he has admired since he started out.
Queen’s title: “It means a lot to me to have my name on the trophy, I’ve wanted to win this tournament since I started playing tennis. It’s been really special for me to play here - so many legends have won here. Seeing my name on the trophy, alongside the great champions for me, it’s amazing”.
Number one before Wimbledon: “The chances don’t change so much. I mean, Novak is coming to Wimbledon. Right now I’m feeling better than the beginning of the week, that’s obvious. Of course, recovering the No. 1 before Wimbledon, it gives you extra motivation, it gives you extra confidence coming into Wimbledon. But it doesn’t change too much if I play Wimbledon as the No. 2 or the No. 1.”
Queen's Champion: “Having my name on this trophy means a lot, I've been watching this tournament since I started playing tennis. Many legends have won here, and to see my name surrounded by great champions is incredible.
De Miñaur: “I want to congratulate Alex for everything he has achieved so far, he has had a great tournament. [To Miñaur] You can feel be very happy with everything you’ve done, I’m sure will play many more finals, fighting for great things. You and your team are working so well, so I want to congratulate him for everything”.
Team effort: “I don’t want to forget anyone, I want to talk about my team and the great support they have given me during the whole week. Samuel, Alberto, Sergio... Of course my father is here. It’s amazing to have these experiences and lift trophies in front of them, so thank you very much.”
Feelings for Wimbledon: “Coming to Wimbledon as number one helps a lot, it's incredible for me. It would not be possible without the support of all the people during the week. I didn't start the tournament very well, I had to adapt my movement. But it has been an impressive week, I have felt a lot of energy. Arriving at Wimbledon like this is very good”.
Happiness: “For me, tennis is my life. Tennis is everything. I always dreamed about being in this tournament, so once I get out onto the court, I put a smile on my face. I enjoy every single second. Playing in such great stadiums and events, it’s something that I’m not going to be mad about. I try to enjoy every second and make the people enjoy watching tennis. To make people happy”.