Carlos Alcaraz has admitted that he struggled with one particular shot throughout the Wimbledon final against Jannik Sinner, stating that he must improve it.
With a champion’s mindset, it’s hard not to believe him as well.
The Spaniard has consistently bounced back from setbacks, and that is why he is widely regarded as the hottest, most prodigious talent in tennis.
Jannik Sinner might have something to say about that now though, as he has moved to within just one Grand Slam title of his generation rival.
Speaking about their latest match-up in the Wimbledon final, Carlos Alcaraz has delved into his own performance.
Carlos Alcaraz admits he struggled with one shot in Wimbledon final
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Alcaraz spoke with great insight about his continued struggles in one key area.
Honing in on his misfiring serve, he admitted: “Today was complicated a little bit. Low percentage of first serve, and I played against one of the best returners on tour, without a doubt.
“It was a weapon that I wish could be better. But today, with the nerves and everything, it was difficult to serve, so I just have to improve that.”
Asked if he felt like he could bounce back from such a loss, Alcaraz remained buoyed: “I think it’s different. It’s a different feeling, to be honest. Last year at the Olympics, I was really bad emotionally after the match, so it was really hard to accept that moment.
“Right now, I think that in the last year I have been through different situations that I learn from. Right now, I am in a position that I have spoken about a few times already, that I accept everything that is coming to me in the way it comes. I just lost a final in a Grand Slam, but I am just really proud of being in a final.
“I want to keep the good moments and try to forget the bad moments. I want to think I just played a final in a Grand Slam and forget I lost it. It’s just about I was able to play in it and I want to accept it. I am not bad at all, I am just happy and smiling because my head is about playing the final and be grateful for that.”
John McEnroe gave his instant reaction to the Wimbledon final, who rightly sought to shower Sinner in praise.
Carlos Alcaraz loses his first Grand Slam final
Despite being just 22 years old, it’s truly shocking to think that today marked Alcaraz’s sixth Grand Slam final.
What’s even more impressive is that today also marked his first loss at this stage, having previously boasted a 100% record on the biggest stage in tennis.
Having come to within an inch of defeat at the French Open, it did feel like he was riding his luck despite having undeniable quality and drive.
So, to see him well-beaten in this year’s Wimbledon final almost seemed like an inevitability. His winning run could not go on forever, and perhaps this loss might actually make him an even better player in the long run. If that’s even possible.
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