Carlos Alcaraz: Injury-Free but Forehand Confidence Still Lags

Carlos Alcaraz, aged 20, has provided an update on his condition at the Madrid Open, indicating that he is currently playing without pain after an arm injury disrupted the beginning of his clay court season. However, the defending champion admits to harboring lingering uncertainties regarding his forehand stroke.

The Spanish tennis prodigy recently defended his Indian Wells title and progressed to the quarter-finals of the Miami Open before sustaining a right forearm injury during a practice session in Monaco. Consequently, Alcaraz was forced to sit out the Monte Carlo and Barcelona tournaments before returning to action in Madrid.

Reflecting on his current state, Alcaraz acknowledged the guidance of his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, commonly known as “Juanqui,” who advised him to adopt a slightly modified approach to his game.

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Alcaraz disclosed, “When I want to hit a forehand hard, I’m asking myself how the arm will react. It’s there in my mind. Juanqui tells me to go with a relaxed hand, and that’s what I do.”

Despite his injury-free status, Alcaraz revealed that he has yet to fully regain trust in his forearm, expressing hesitations during intense moments on the court.

“I still don’t trust 100% the forearm. I have doubts; it’s just in my head. I love competing, so from time to time, I want to go hard, and I think about it,” he admitted.

Furthermore, Alcaraz emphasized a shift in his playing style, opting for a more controlled approach rather than relying solely on sheer power.

“I can’t say that I play at a lower percentage; I play differently. You’re used to seeing me push my forehand to 200% several times in matches. Juanqui tells me I don’t need to go that far,” he explained.

Despite grappling with mental hurdles, Alcaraz expressed overall satisfaction with his performance, highlighting his fluid movement on the court and absence of physical discomfort.

“I’m happy with my game and with the ball’s trajectory. I’m moving well, feeling good, and I have no pain. I just need time to let these thoughts go away,” he affirmed.

Alcaraz, seeded second in the tournament, is determined to secure a third consecutive trophy in Madrid as he gears up for the upcoming French Open. His next challenge awaits against Jan-Lennard Struff in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s title clash.