Carlos Alcaraz successfully navigated his first match at the 2026 Australian Open with a relatively comfortable three-set victory over Adam Walton. The player from Murcia highlighted his opponent's good performance today and the challenge he faced in figuring out how to break him down to advance in Melbourne.
During the press conference, Carlitos discussed his experience on the first day of competition in 2026 and how he plans to approach the two days without a match at the Australian Open. Lastly, he tried to give more credit and recognition to Samu López, affirming that he is the best coach he could have.
Alcaraz Stands Up for Samu López, His New Coach
"It's a bit challenging, I think I've played good tennis here in Australia in the last two years, but I lost to Zverev and Djokovic, two very good tennis players to face in the quarterfinals. I believe I can do better this year than in the previous two, and I hope to go further."
The Toughest Part of the First Match
Above all, the pace of competition is what I find most difficult. Ultimately, playing with the audience, with De Miñaur, days before, feeling those nerves of being in a Grand Slam, that's something you cannot practice in exhibition matches; that's the toughest part. Knowing your body and what's happening at all times, and knowing how to deal with each situation and the level at which you have to play. Surely, I will gradually get the hang of it all."
Two Days of Rest, What's Planned
Tomorrow, I surely won't rest. I plan to train in the morning, but I want to go play some golf. These are two important days to recover for the next match.
Feelings with the New Serve
It went very well, very naturally. It's one of the best things I did in the match. It wasn't a deliberate change we discussed making; it just evolved that way, and I felt very comfortable, aiming to do it effortlessly, with much calm and tranquility in the movement. The match showed that it's a great weapon that I'll continue to improve over time.
Samu López, If He Needs More Recognition
Each person, each coach, is different. Some bring one thing, and others bring another. What he gives me is everything a coach can offer today. Samu hasn't been number 1 or a professional tennis player who made it to the Top, but he is a great technician. He hasn't received the recognition he deserves. Many coaches have been recommended to me, and I don't think it's fair because he's one of the best or the best coach out there right now. What he brings, is much of what not many coaches can offer.
本新闻为自动翻译。您可以阅读原始新闻:Alcaraz saca la cara por Samu López: "Es el mejor entrenador del mundo"

