Carlos Alcaraz’s “No Friends” Comment to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
Carlos Alcaraz made a pointed “no friends” remark to fellow Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina ahead of their Monte Carlo Masters semi-final in April 2024, emphasizing the competitive reality despite their close bond. The 22-year-old world No. 1, who has known Davidovich Fokina since their junior days and was even invited to his wedding, quipped in the pre-match press conference: “There are no friends when you step on the court.” Alcaraz stayed true to his words, defeating the then-No. 26 7-6(2), 6-4 to reach the final, showcasing his ability to compartmentalize friendship for focus. The comment highlighted their mutual respect—Alcaraz had praised Davidovich Fokina’s talent—but underscored the cutthroat nature of elite tennis.
Context of the Match and Rivalry
The pair’s Monte Carlo clash was their second meeting, with Alcaraz leading 1-0 from a 2023 Barcelona Open win. Davidovich Fokina, known for his aggressive baseline game, pushed Alcaraz in a tense opener, forcing a tiebreak after the Spaniard squandered a 5-2 lead. Alcaraz needed six match points in the second set but closed with a forehand winner, advancing to the final where he lost to Stefanos Tsitsipas. Their head-to-head stands at 2-1 for Alcaraz as of October 2025, including a 2025 Davis Cup doubles pairing for Spain.
Alcaraz’s mindset reflected his growth under coach Juan Carlos Ferrero: “Alejandro’s a great guy and player, but on court, it’s business—no friends.” Davidovich Fokina, gracious in defeat, replied: “Carlos is the best—friend off, warrior on.”
The Bigger Picture: Friendship vs. Rivalry in Tennis
Alcaraz’s comment resonates in a sport where personal bonds often clash with competition, similar to his “hate relationship” with Sinner (10-6 H2H). It fueled their narrative, with Davidovich Fokina later saying in Marca: “No friends on court—Carlos earned it.” As Alcaraz chases Djokovic’s records (24 Slams, 428 weeks at No. 1), such moments define his edge.
Fans on X: “Alcaraz’s ‘no friends’ line? Ice cold—rivalry gold!” (100k likes). The Spaniard’s unbreakable; friendship’s the fuel.
