What did Carlos Alcaraz say about playing tennis in Mexico City for the first time?

Tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz is gearing up to play in Mexico City for the first time as one of the stars of the second edition of Tennis Fest. Ahead of the exhibition event, the world number two has spoken about what will be expected of him in the 2024 season, as well as his excitement about being in Mexico.

Alcaraz going for Olympic gold in 2024

While competing for the four Grand Slams will inevitably be the Spaniard’s main objective next year, he was keen to point out there will be one additional goal for him to achieve: “With the Olympic Games taking place, it is going to be a special year, I think I have already shown year after year that I am here to win everything,” Alcaraz declared.

The 20-year-old, who won his second major at Wimbledon in July, also sought to play down comparisons with tennis’ “big three” of Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, instead preferring to write his own story in the sport: “I’m the same guy as always, no matter how famous I get, I’m not going to change. I don’t take too much notice of people who compare me with Rafa, Federer or Djokovic,” he commented.

Alcaraz “so happy” to be in Mexico to play Tommy Paul

Alcaraz will be playing on Mexican soil for the second time in his career having previously competed at the ATP 500 in Acapulco in 2021, when he was a wild card entry: “I’m so happy to be here and be part of this wonderful event. It’s my first time in Mexico City. I am very excited to play against Tommy Paul. We have already faced each other this year, they have been great matches and I think tomorrow’s will be another one,” the 2022 US Open winner concluded.

Before the match between Alcaraz and Paul at Plaza de Toros México, Maria Sakkari will take on Caroline Woszniacki. The event will be closed by Colombian singer Sebastián Yatra.