Carlos Alcaraz has only played on the Margaret Court Arena up to this point in the Australian Open, but that hasn't stopped him from playing his best tennis by demolishing Shevchenko and Nishioka respectively in the first two rounds.
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Among the top players, the 21-year-old from Murcia is perhaps the one who has played the most convincing tennis so far, although more probing tests should be expected. The young Spanish champion has not lost a single set so far and his progress on serve is very evident, which is why Carlitos is very confident for the rest of the tournament.
The former world No.1 scored 14 aces and didn't concede a single break point against Nishioka, confirming that he worked well during the off-season and still has significant room for improvement in all shots.
Alcaraz debuts on RLA
The 4-time Grand Slam champion will make his debut on the iconic Rod Laver Arena tomorrow, when he faces Portuguese ace Nuno Borges in the second match of the day session. Borges will be able to play without having much pressure and often gets excited in this tournament, which is why the world number 3 will not be able to afford to underestimate him.
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During the press conference after his very easy victory against Nishioka in the second round, the young Spaniard was asked if he prefers to play on Margaret Court Arena or on RLA: Well, I like playing on Margaret Court Arena. I think its a really beautiful court, said Alcaraz. Obviously I want to play on Rod Laver, but we have to see the schedule, as well.
Carlitos also added: As I said many times, I dont like to play night sessions. I prefer to play day session. After the match, I can recover much better. I can go to sleep at a good time. Its not too late for me. So I prefer to play a day session.
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If I have to play on Margaret Court, which is a really beautiful and great court, Im going to do it. Obviously center court of the Grand Slams, here in Australia the Rod Laver is one of those courts that you want to play in.
