Carlos Alcaraz Criticizes Shot Clock Rule Before Miami Open Exit
Carlos Alcaraz voiced his frustration over the shot clock rule before his surprising early exit at the Miami Open. The No. 2 seed appeared to believe that chair umpire Simon Cannavan should have exercised more discretion in certain situations, allowing players additional time before starting the shot clock.
Alcaraz Challenges Chair Umpire Over Shot Clock Timing
During the second set, despite not facing any break points in the third game, Alcaraz endured a grueling five-minute battle. When the changeover arrived, the 2022 Miami champion took the opportunity to address the chair umpire about what he perceived as an unfair application of the shot clock rule.
“I finished at the net, it’s impossible to start the clock immediately,” Alcaraz was heard telling Cannavan. “He only brought me the towel once, and if I go get it myself, I lose even more time. You know what I mean? It’s impossible—I finish at the net and have no time.”
Alcaraz Falls to Goffin in Three-Set Battle
After play resumed, Alcaraz was broken in the ninth game of the second set, allowing David Goffin to serve it out and level the match. The 55th-ranked Belgian then rode his momentum into the decider, breaking Alcaraz early and securing another crucial break in the ninth game to seal a 5-7, 6-4, 6-3 victory.
Alcaraz struggled with consistency throughout the match, committing a staggering 43 unforced errors. Following his defeat, the Spaniard candidly admitted his disappointment.
“It was a poor level from me. I just wanted to play better,” Alcaraz said. “After the first set, I thought I was going to improve. He played well, he played good tennis. My level didn’t rise, but I think his did after the first set.”
This loss marks Alcaraz’s second consecutive defeat, following his semifinal exit to Jack Draper at the Indian Wells Masters.
