“Sometimes I get negative thoughts”: Carlos Alcaraz admits issues with mental health and dealing with criticism

Carlos Alcaraz has openly admitted to struggling with mental health challenges and dealing with criticism, revealing that he sometimes experiences negative thoughts. The 22-year-old Spanish tennis star, currently ranked world No. 2, shared these insights in a recent interview with Gazzetta, highlighting his ongoing efforts to manage the psychological pressures of his elite career. Alcaraz, who has won five Grand Slam titles, including the 2025 French Open, explained that he has been working with a mental coach for about five years, crediting her with significant improvements. He noted, “Sometimes I get negative thoughts, but she helps me manage them,” adding that her advice on handling match stress has been crucial, though he acknowledges that mental strength also depends on match dynamics and preparation.

Alcaraz’s admission comes amid a season of highs and lows, including his Wimbledon 2025 final loss to Jannik Sinner and his subsequent withdrawal from the Canadian Open to address physical and mental fatigue. He has reflected on past difficulties, particularly a period when criticism heavily influenced him, stating, “There was a time when I was really influenced by criticism, and that was a very difficult time.” To cope, he now focuses on minimizing the impact of detractors, emphasizing that small steps and learning from defeats are key to his growth. This openness aligns with a broader trend in tennis, where players like Iga Swiatek and Andy Murray have also sought mental health support, challenging the sport’s traditional stigma around such issues. As he prepares for a return at the Cincinnati Masters, Alcaraz’s candor highlights his resilience and commitment to mental well-being at 11:30 AM WAT on July 25, 2025.