Carlos Alcaraz: 'The negative things I read affected me, even doubts crept in'

Spain - Ekhbary News Agency

Carlos Alcaraz: 'The negative things I read affected me, even doubts crept in'

In the hours following his triumphant victory at the Australian Open, Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz has opened up about the significant psychological toll that media criticism and intense public pressure can take, even on a world-class athlete. He confessed that negative commentary he encountered significantly impacted him, leading to moments of profound self-doubt.

Speaking to the Spanish newspaper EL MUNDO, shortly after defeating Novak Djokovic in a thrilling final, Alcaraz provided a rare glimpse into the mental battles that accompany his meteoric rise. While the on-court battles are fierce, the internal struggles against negativity and self-questioning are equally demanding.

"The negative things I read affected me, even doubts crept in," Alcaraz admitted. This statement underscores the vulnerability that even the most successful athletes can experience when exposed to the relentless barrage of opinions and critiques found in modern media and social platforms. For a young player like Alcaraz, who carries the hopes of a nation, such pressures can be particularly challenging.

The young champion stressed the crucial importance of "treating oneself well," a lesson he has learned through hard experience. In the hyper-competitive world of professional tennis, where wins are celebrated and losses are scrutinized, maintaining mental and emotional well-being is paramount for sustained success. Developing robust coping mechanisms and prioritizing self-care are essential tools for navigating the highs and lows of a professional career.

Reflecting on his journey, Alcaraz touched upon the realization of his "childhood dream." Achieving the pinnacle of a sport like tennis requires immense dedication, rigorous training, and countless sacrifices. For Alcaraz, this dream is not merely a fleeting aspiration but the tangible outcome of years of unwavering commitment and passion, cultivated since his early years.

In a candid discussion, he also addressed personal changes, including his "divorce" from former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. Such transitions in coaching staff often mark significant turning points in an athlete's career, signaling a need for new strategies or a different perspective to achieve evolving goals.

Furthermore, Alcaraz elaborated on his "method for not losing touch with reality." In an environment saturated with adulation and constant praise, staying grounded is a formidable challenge. However, Alcaraz appears to possess strong defenses against arrogance, perhaps drawing wisdom from the experiences of others or guidance from his close circle.

Describing his subdued post-victory celebrations, Alcaraz revealed the sheer exhaustion he felt. "I was dead," he stated, explaining that after the final match, he returned to his room at 2 AM unable to do anything but play video games with his brother. This simple act constituted his entire celebration, highlighting his depleted state and his preference for quiet family time over extravagant parties.

He expressed a strong desire to return to his hometown of Murcia to rest. The constant travel and demands of the professional circuit often create a yearning for the comfort and familiarity of home. Returning to one's roots provides an essential opportunity to recharge, regain balance, and reconnect with the environment that shaped them.

This interview comes at a pivotal moment in Alcaraz's career. His willingness to speak openly about his psychological struggles and acknowledge the impact of external pressures establishes him as a role model for aspiring young athletes. He sends a powerful message that success is not without its costs and that mental fortitude is as vital as physical prowess.

Alcaraz's Australian Open triumph is more than just a sporting achievement; it is a testament to his growing maturity and his ability to overcome both internal and external obstacles. As he looks toward the future, this experience will undoubtedly shape his journey, equipping him with a deeper understanding of what it takes to remain at the top of the tennis world.

Ekhbary News Agency