A few days after conquering Rome, Carlos Alcaraz traveled to Paris to carry over all those good feelings he has been experiencing on clay to the French Grand Slam. With the titles from Monte Carlo and the Italian capital, the Spaniard is highlighted as one of the main favorites for this Roland Garros 2025, where many fans dream of seeing him in the final against Jannik Sinner, another top contender.
His Story with Roland Garros
"It holds a very special place for me. I watched many Spanish tennis players compete there, including Rafa Nadal. I remember as a child, rushing back from school to turn on the TV, and all I wanted to do was spend the afternoon watching the matches. When I was 11, I played for the first time at Roland Garros. Later, you could go watch the matches, and if I'm not mistaken, the first player I saw was Richard Gasquet. I remember telling myself: 'One day I'll be here.' After that, I gained experience, lived unforgettable moments on the court, and last year, the final victory. It was incredible, a dream come true," said Carlitos in an interview with Roland Garros.
A Life Full of Sacrifices
"I have worked very, very hard to get here. Talent is necessary, of course, but it makes no sense without hard work. For years, I worked and sacrificed many things when I was younger to achieve my goal, fulfill my dreams, become a professional player. I believe the secret is investing all the time and energy you need on the court and growing with the best possible people around you. It also helps a lot to be surrounded by great individuals, professionals, who help me become a better player and a better person. My parents have also played an essential role."
What is said in the worst moments?
"When I hit rock bottom, when I lost matches that I really wanted to win, it was like receiving a big slap. Thanks to my loved ones, I managed to tell myself every time: 'Okay, I am where I have always dreamed of being since I was a child. So, there is nothing to be angry about, no time to waste on frustrations. Just keep moving forward and enjoy the present moment.' That's my mentality, and much of it I owe to the people I have around me."
Is Clay his best surface?
"I wouldn't say it's my favorite surface (laughs). I think it's more hardcourt, but I grew up playing on clay. When I started, I only wanted to play on clay. I didn't step on a hardcourt until I was 11 or 12 years old. Clay is always special for Spanish players. I have managed to improve my game on this surface, I feel good on it, and my game suits it. I love all the matches I play on this surface, and as soon as the clay season ends and I switch to grass, I miss it."
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Alcaraz: "Se necesita talento, pero sin trabajo duro esto no tiene sentido"

