Carlos Alcaraz has responded to growing criticism that he and Alexander Zverev should have capitalized on Jannik Sinner’s recent suspension, calling those expectations “unfair.”
Speaking ahead of the Monte-Carlo Masters, Alcaraz addressed the pressure he’s felt since Sinner accepted a three-month ban earlier this year. Many expected Alcaraz to rise to the top spot in Sinner’s absence, but the 20-year-old Spaniard insists it’s not that simple.
“Probably a lot of people thought that if Jannik wasn’t there, players like myself or Sascha [Zverev] should have won more tournaments,” Alcaraz said. “But I don’t think that’s fair. Right now, draws are really open. Many players are playing great tennis and deserve to be in the fight too.”
Since Sinner’s suspension in February, neither Alcaraz nor Zverev has made a deep tournament run. Alcaraz suffered early exits in Doha, Indian Wells, and Miami, while Zverev has failed to advance past the quarterfinals in his last five tournaments.
Despite losing over 1,000 ranking points during his absence, Sinner remains No. 1 in both the ATP rankings and the Race to Turin, as his closest rivals have failed to close the gap.
“People say we [top players] have to win all the time, be in finals, take over,” Alcaraz added. “I’m not surprised by that, but the pressure probably got to me. It kind of killed me.”
With Sinner set to return at the Italian Open and later compete in Roland Garros, Alcaraz—who is the defending French Open champion—admits he no longer sees himself overtaking the Italian this clay season.
“I’ve realized I don’t need to think about No. 1 anymore. I just go out there and play. That’s my mindset now.”
Despite a rough start to 2025, Alcaraz says he’s still confident in his game.
“Tennis isn’t just about hitting the ball—there’s a mental and physical side too. I feel good about my level. Even if I’m not winning, I know I’m playing well.”
The Monte-Carlo Masters could mark a turning point for Alcaraz, who is looking to win his first match at the event after losing in his debut in 2022.
“It’s a bit strange—I’ve only played here once and lost. So yeah, I’d love to change that.”
