Alcaraz: "The best version of myself will come in a few years"

The Spaniard gave a profound interview in which he spoke about his rivalry with Jannik Sinner and what he expects from his long-term sports career.

Diego Jiménez Rubio | 21 Apr 2026 | 09.47
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Carlos Alcaraz, future and rivalry with Sinner. Photo: gettyimages
Carlos Alcaraz, future and rivalry with Sinner. Photo: gettyimages

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Carlos Alcaraz is clear that he wants to make history and is aware that he needs to have a long-term vision. That's why, at the Laureus Awards gala, he warned that missing Roland Garros 2026 would be tough, but he won't jeopardize his future to be there. Additionally, he spoke with surprising frankness about his rivalry with Jannik Sinner and the challenge of matching or surpassing Djokovic's 24 Grand Slams.

The cream of the sports world gathered in Madrid on Monday for the Laureus Awards ceremony, providing an excellent opportunity to learn more about Carlos Alcaraz. No matter how many interviews he gives, the Murcian always delivers headlines and confessions that shed light on the personality behind this budding legend. In a chat with Gazzetta dello Sport, he shared truly interesting reflections on various topics.

These are the most important aspects of Alcaraz's interview for Gazzetta dello Sport

Update on his issue with the right wrist

"All that's left is to be patient. These are long days; I try to stay positive, but everything depends on the test results in the coming days. That's when we'll see how I've progressed," explained the Spaniard, aware that skipping the second Grand Slam of the year would be a significant setback.

Personality off the court

"No matter how much I smile on the court and enjoy myself, I am extremely competitive. I dislike losing at absolutely anything, and my family knows that well," he said before reflecting on how he feels at glamorous events like the Laureus Awards. "I've learned to enjoy all situations. What I love most is being at home with my family and friends, but it's also nice to participate in events like this, to feel surrounded by sports stars. I feel like a kid when I have the chance to meet important people. When I tell my friends in Murcia about it, it seems unreal," he confessed.

Carlos Alcaraz, future in tennis. Photo: gettyimages

Happiness as a tennis player and expectations for his future

"The life of an elite athlete has advantages and disadvantages, but the best part is the opportunity it gives me to connect with people and see the world. I consider that to be something I will always take with me and that will contribute a lot to my life, even when I retire from tennis," said Carlos. "I believe I have a lot more to offer; I don't think my best version has been seen yet. I'm too young to think I've reached my full potential. I have time and a lot to learn and improve in all aspects: physical, tennis-wise, and mentally. The best Alcaraz will be seen in a few years," he asserted.

"I hope for a long career. I will do everything possible to make it happen. I have no intention of setting limits on myself, but obviously, Djokovic's 24 Grand Slams are far off," the Murcian warned.

Rivalry with Sinner on and off the court

"My feeling is that the good relationship Jannik and I have makes him very appreciated in Spain and me in Italy. I believe it's important that we respect and admire each other. I can guarantee that thanks to him, I am a much better tennis player. Having his competition there makes me give my best in every training session. It helps me improve a lot because it forces me to refine details for my matches against him. I am very grateful that he is on the circuit," commented the Spaniard.

"I usually talk about golf with Jannik. I know he's playing less and less, and when we meet at tournaments, we recommend courses to each other, talk about our improvements, etc. We always talk about how great it would be to play together. Right now, I'm unable to play golf, but I've been karting for a while. Maybe I should challenge Jannik there because certainly not on the ski slopes," said Carlos Alcaraz with a laugh, always making headlines.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Alcaraz: "La mejor versión de mí mismo llegará en unos años"