Carlos Alcaraz had a really intense summer, winning Roland Garros and Wimbledon in a row, only to lose the gold medal final against Novak Djokovic at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. That's why the premature defeat suffered by the young Spaniard in the second round of the US Open against Botic van de Zandschulp surprised everyone, yes, but it can be understood by analyzing some important factors.
In fact, there was little time available for the young Spaniard to adapt to the different surface changes and be physically ready. The mental aspect should not be underestimated. Alcaraz's goal was to climb to the top step of the podium at the Olympics and the final lost against Nole may have left a small mark.
"The truth is that I was hoping to get a result. I didn't play at the level I wanted. It's difficult to compete 100% every day. The tournament is over now. The season has been intense with Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Olympics, and I had a few days to prepare myself as best I could before the US Open. It's an experience that I will learn from and in the future things will definitely be better. At the moment we are quite motivated and we are looking forward to playing the Davis Cup in Spain. I really want to feel all the love from the people, because I haven't been able to play many matches like this.
After the US Open? I spent time with my friends and had the opportunity to watch Formula 1 live. It was something I really wanted to do, but obviously the tennis calendar doesn't allow you to do it often. In the end you always have to find spaces to do the things you like to disconnect a bit. These are days that have allowed me to calm down after the defeat I suffered at the US Open," said Carlitos ahead of the Davis Cup weekend.
The champion of Paris and London will start again from the Davis Cup, where he will face Australia, the Czech Republic and France in Valencia.
