After storming to success so early in his career, tennis icon Roger Federer has offered essential advice to Carlos Alcaraz, hoping to help the young Spaniard sustain his incredible form.
Federer, who has long been considered one of the greatest tennis players in history, recognizes the immense talent Alcaraz possesses but also sees the potential risks that come with the aggressive style of play that has brought the 21-year-old so much success.
Alcaraz, often compared to legends like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, has taken the professional tennis world by storm. In just a few short years, he has captured four Grand Slam titles, quickly cementing his place among the sport’s elite. His speed, footwork, and incredible court coverage have drawn comparisons to Nadal’s relentless energy and Djokovic’s tactical brilliance, making Alcaraz a favorite among fans and pundits alike. However, Federer believes there are certain aspects of Alcaraz’s game that, if not adjusted, could lead to issues as the young star continues his career.
In an interview with Stan Sport, Federer emphasized that Alcaraz’s physical approach to the game—particularly his tendency to run for every ball—may not be sustainable in the long term. “Obviously he’s got to be careful, you know, [that] he doesn’t run basically for every ball because it’s not necessary,” Federer warned. The Swiss maestro, who won 20 Grand Slam titles throughout his career, knows firsthand the importance of preserving energy and choosing when to go all out on the court. “But he’ll learn that with age and with time. But also [he’s] very strong [mentally] when it matters the most,” Federer added, acknowledging Alcaraz’s incredible mental fortitude.
Alcaraz’s current playing style is both a strength and a potential concern. His ability to cover large distances in a short amount of time has allowed him to return shots that many others would have given up on. This aggressive, high-energy approach has made him a formidable opponent and contributed significantly to his Grand Slam victories. Yet, it also puts a tremendous physical toll on his body. Federer’s advice is rooted in the need for longevity in a sport that demands both physical and mental endurance. By becoming more economical with his movements and not chasing every ball, Alcaraz could save his energy for the most crucial points in a match, extending his career and avoiding potential injuries that come from overexertion.
The 2024 season has already been a whirlwind for Alcaraz. After securing titles at both the French Open and Wimbledon, there was widespread speculation that he could achieve the rare feat of winning three consecutive majors in a single season. However, his run came to a surprising halt at the US Open, where he suffered a shocking second-round defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp. The straight-sets loss stunned fans and analysts alike, as many expected Alcaraz to cruise into the later rounds. In the aftermath, Alcaraz graciously credited Van de Zandschulp for his performance but also admitted that he struggled to “increase his level” when it mattered most, hinting at potential fatigue.
This unexpected exit from the US Open may serve as further proof that Federer’s advice is both timely and relevant. The grueling demands of a full tennis season, especially for a player as physically intense as Alcaraz, can catch up quickly. Even the best players can experience dips in form due to exhaustion, and finding ways to mitigate this through smarter play could help Alcaraz maintain his elite status for years to come. Federer’s words are a reminder that tennis is as much about strategy and efficiency as it is about athleticism and raw power.
Despite the setback at the US Open, Alcaraz has shown his resilience by bouncing back in style. His debut appearance at the Laver Cup, representing Team Europe, was a testament to his ability to recover from disappointment and focus on the next challenge. Alcaraz won the joint-most matches of any player in the competition, helping secure victory for his team and reinforcing his reputation as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
As the 2024 season winds down, Alcaraz is set to compete at the ATP Finals in November. This prestigious event will feature some of the top players in the world, including Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev, two formidable opponents who will test Alcaraz’s abilities on the biggest stage. Alcaraz’s record this season—an impressive 43-9—demonstrates his consistency and competitiveness, but the young Spaniard will undoubtedly be looking to finish the year on a high note.
In addition to his Grand Slam success, Alcaraz has also earned a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, further bolstering his already-impressive résumé. The accolades continue to pile up for the young star, and at just 21 years old, the sky seems to be the limit for what he can achieve. However, Federer’s advice suggests that the path to long-term greatness lies in finding the right balance between aggression and conservation.
Federer’s own career serves as the perfect example of how strategic adjustments can lead to sustained success. Throughout his two decades on the tour, Federer adapted his game as he aged, becoming more selective in his shot-making and conserving his energy for the moments that mattered most. This allowed him to compete at the highest level well into his thirties, winning Grand Slam titles and maintaining his place among the sport’s elite for far longer than many of his peers. Federer sees the same potential in Alcaraz, but he also understands that the young Spaniard must learn to pace himself to avoid burning out too soon.
As Alcaraz continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how he integrates Federer’s advice into his game. Tennis fans around the world are eager to witness his growth and development as he navigates the challenges that come with being a young star in the sport. While his current style has brought him immense success, the key to sustaining that success may lie in adapting and refining his approach over time.
With the ATP Finals and future Grand Slams on the horizon, the tennis world will be watching closely to see if Alcaraz can continue his rise to the top. Federer’s words of wisdom could prove to be a crucial element in helping the young Spaniard reach his full potential and, perhaps, cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats in the sport. In the end, as Federer suggests, sometimes less really is more, especially when it comes to preserving the body and mind for the long haul in a demanding sport like tennis.
