Carlos Alcaraz has asserted that “talking is easy and free” as he addressed those who have criticised his form and results in 2025.
The world No 2 secured his second title of the season at last week’s Monte Carlo Masters, where he came from a set down to defeat Lorenzo Musetti in the final.
Alcaraz, who also won the Rotterdam Open in February, improved his 2025 record to 20-4 (83.3%) with the five victories he earned at the clay-court Masters tournament.
Prior to his Monte Carlo triumph, Alcaraz faced harsh scrutiny from some quarters over his performances in Doha, Indian Wells and Miami.
The 21-year-old fell in the quarter-finals of the Qatar Open to Jiri Lehecka, the semi-finals in Indian Wells to Jack Draper and the second round in Miami to David Goffin.
Alcaraz was also criticised after his Australian Open quarter-final loss to Novak Djokovic in January.
The Spaniard will aim to build on his perfect start to the clay season at this week’s Barcelona Open, where he is seeking a third title.
Prior to his campaign at the ATP 500 event, Alcaraz was asked about the high expectations placed on him.
“I suppose winning all matches 2-0, never losing (laughs),” he told reporters.
“I don’t know, the level of demand is high, although I recognise that there have been some results that, for some people… even for myself, have not been as expected.
“We are four months into the year and I have learned many things, now I give importance to what truly matters.
Carlos Alcaraz News
Bjorn Borg predicts whether Carlos Alcaraz will match or surpass Rafael Nadal’s achievements
Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev’s battle for No 2 spot ahead of French Open
“There have been certain defeats that may have felt insufficient to many, but for me, there is no defeat that feels insufficient anymore; they are all learning experiences.
“So, I need to move forward. Talking is easy and free, particularly when someone has expectations and doesn’t fulfil them, that’s all I can say.”
The four-time Grand Slam champion also admitted he had not expected to secure the title in Monte Carlo.
“I can say that I gained a lot of confidence in Monte Carlo; I didn’t expect to win,” Alcaraz added.
“I just want to get into the rhythm, the matches, and the hours on clay. Winning the title gives you confidence for what’s to come.
“I’m very happy to come here, with the Monte Carlo title, with confidence and feeling very good physically. I’m ready to compete, feel the love of my people, play in Barcelona, in Spain. It will be an incredible feeling.”
Alcaraz, who is the top seed in Barcelona, will take on world No 126 Ethan Quinn in his opening round match.
READ NEXT: The 11 men to win multiple Barcelona Open titles: Rafael Nadal unrivalled, Carlos Alcaraz on 2
The post What Carlos Alcaraz said about criticism and expectations he has faced in 2025 ahead of Barcelona bid appeared first on Tennis365.
Leave a Reply