Carlos Alcaraz news: Spanish teen feels he belongs in the big time

ATP Tour
Carlos Alcaraz in action

World No 19 Carlos Alcaraz doesn’t feel overawed when lining up against the biggest names in tennis.

Alcaraz has taken a lot of confidence from a meteoric rise into the top 20 of the ATP Rankings and 16 wins in his last 17 matches.

He will face another in-form player in Great Britain’s Cameron Norrie in the last eight at Indian Wells after seeing off Gael Monfils in the fourth round.

After his comeback win over Monfils, Alcaraz spoke of his comfort on court.

“I feel really comfortable on court. I’m playing at a great level,” Alcaraz explained.

“I trust myself on court. Rio was an amazing week for me. I came here knowing I could put up results. I’ve played some good matches here. I’m really enjoying every single second out there. That’s the most important thing, enjoying every moment. I think I’m doing that, and the results are coming.”

Alcaraz has been candid about his lofty ambitions in the sport and it is already clear that it’s more than bluster.

The Spanish teen has set his sights on reaching the very top of the sport.

“When I was a child, I always dreamed I would be able to be No. 1 in the world, the best in the world in tennis, win Grand Slams,” he said.

“Every day that I put in the hard work, the results are coming. Every day I can see those goals closer.”

Former world No 1 Juan Carlos Ferrero is among those backing Alcaraz for big things.

“He has a lot of potential.

“He already has a great level of tennis, but I really believe that he’s going to be a fantastic player in the near future,” Ferrero told Richard Osborn.

“When somebody at his age is able to do the things that he’s doing, it’s because you have something special.

“At the same time, he’s humble enough to keep working. He’s passionate about the game.

“I really believe that he’s a complete player. But he’s just 18, so he has plenty of time.”

Carlos Alcaraz

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