Carlos Alcaraz: “I’m eager to clinch my second Grand Slam”

Carlos Alcaraz’s meteoric rise continues. Following victories in Barcelona and last weekend’s Masters 1000 in Madrid, which coming after Buenos Aires and Indian Wells, was his tenth career title and fourth of the year. Yesterday he was in Paris, en route to Rome, where he’ll take the number one spot provided he plays at least his opening match. Alcaraz’s Laureus Breakthrough of the Year Award places him among a pantheon of sporting legends, joining the ranks of fellow Spaniards Marc Márquez, Sergio García, and Rafa Nadal.

Alcaraz at the Laureus

Visibly nervous on the red carpet, the Spanish star chatted with the likes of Leo Messi while his father captured the moment. Along the way, he encountered Edwin Moses, Robert Lewandowski, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Fabio Capello, and Carles Pujol, among others.

Accompanied by family and his agent Albert Molina, Alcaraz was in a tuxedo and bow tie and looking sharp as he rubbed shoulders with the sporting elite. He’ll be back on court on Tuesday at the Foro Italico Masters 1000.

Tiring start to the year for Alcaraz

Having been determined to reclaim the number one spot, Alcaraz admitted to feeling fatigued after recent successes. “The last two months have been a whirlwind, but they’ve boosted my confidence. Rome is coming up, but Roland Garros is the ultimate goal. I’m eager to clinch my second Grand Slam,” the young prodigy remarked.

Starting on May 28, the hopes are that the French Open could see the return of 14-time champion Rafa Nadal. Alcaraz expressed his hope that his fellow Spaniard would be able to take part.

Last year, Alcaraz reached the quarterfinals in Paris, where he fell to Alexander Zverev in four sets. However, his impressive performance on clay, coupled with doubts surrounding Nadal and Novak Djokovic, has put him directly among the favorites. Just like with the Laureus, his first nomination led to success - more triumphs are undoubtedly on the horizon.