Alcaraz explains how he has progressed mentally in the last three years

Andrés Tomás Rico | 22 Apr 2026 | 14.33

Alcaraz explains how he has progressed mentally in the last three years. Photo: Getty Images

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As the uncertainties surrounding his wrist injury have the tennis world on edge, Carlos Alcaraz made an appearance at the Mutua Madrid Open. His physical misfortune has once again prevented him from participating in the Magic Box for the second consecutive year, while Rome seems practically ruled out, and Roland Garros remains a big question mark.

During his brief visit to the facilities, the winner of 7 Grand Slams also joined the tournament's own Iguales YouTube program. In it, he discussed various aspects outside of tennis, but also took the opportunity to confess how he has evolved mentally both on and off the court, as well as his love for Murcia and what it means to him to be at home.

Alcaraz and his mental maturity over the past three years

"It has truly been three very exciting years in which many things have happened, thankfully, more good than bad, but there have also been some ups and downs. I have had to learn a lot. Above all, I am struck by the way I have evolved in terms of approaching tournaments and focusing on matches."

"Before, pressure and nerves could get to me before an important match, and now I take it much more naturally, with much more composure, enjoying myself on the court. I think that is what I take away from these last three years."

Now he has a say in the decisions of his team

"I have been growing and maturing and am starting to make decisions. Before, at 19 years old, practically all decisions you could make could be wrong, and that's why I had my team guiding me. In a way, I just followed their advice. Now, more or less, I have a voice and a vote and can give my opinion, decide, communicate what I need, when I need to stop, when I need to train. At least now, I can give my input. I think that's important."

Revealing the two things he misses the most when he's not in Murcia

"One of the things I miss the most about Murcia, obviously, is sleeping in my own bed. That is the main and number one thing. And then a good 'marinera.' I mean, people who haven't been to Murcia don't know what a 'marinera' is, but it's like a snack that is heavenly."

"When I spend a lot of time away from home at tournaments, you expose yourself a lot to the press, to all kinds of situations, and your focus has to be on the tournament and doing your best or everything in your power to be prepared for the tournament. When I return to Murcia, it's like going back to the child I used to be. In a way, I forget that I am a tennis player and I become the person I have always been, doing the simplest things in the world with my friends, and that's what relaxes me and brings me back to earth, where I completely disconnect," shared Carlos Alcaraz, who, while still uncertain about the exact extent of his wrist injury, tries to relax in his beloved Murcia.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Alcaraz explica cómo ha progresado a nivel mental en los últimos tres años