Alcaraz heads to Miami, looks to retain his crown and topranking
The Hindu
World number one Carlos Alcaraz heads into this week’s Miami Open looking to defend both his title and top ranking.
World number one Carlos Alcaraz heads into this week’s Miami Open looking to defend both his title and top ranking and admitting even he has been surprised by his dizzying rise to the top of the sport.
A year ago, the 19-year-old came to Miami on the back of wins on clay in Croatia and Brazil and hoping to make his mark on the hard courts. His victory in South Florida launched a remarkable year.
The highlight was his US Open triumph which made him the youngest player to become world number one and he returns to Miami after last week’s win in Indian Wells, achieved without dropping a set in the tournament.
“It’s all been very fast, when I got to Miami last year I was around number 20 and a year later I am coming in with the number one ranking. That is something very special. I fulfilled my dreams quicker than I expected,” he told reporters on Tuesday.
Because of his victory in Miami last year, Alcaraz must win at the Florida event again if he is to hold on to his number one spot, but he says he feels no pressure in that regard or to meet newly raised expectations.
“I don’t feel the pressure too much. I know the things I have to do. I need to play relaxed and not mind if I lose or if I play well or not,” he said.
“My goal is always the same. To feel comfortable on court. To enjoy playing tennis and try to have great thoughts when playing. That is why I am playing at a good level. I am enjoying every single second and playing relaxed. That is what I am thinking about on court,” he added.