Carlos Alcaraz is gearing up for one of the biggest challenges of his 2024 season—the Nitto ATP Finals, where he is set to face Casper Ruud in his opening match. The 21-year-old Spaniard, widely regarded for his breathtaking skill set and tactical prowess, enters the tournament with a mix of confidence and determination, though not without a few reservations about playing indoors. Unlike the outdoor clay and hard courts where he has flourished, indoor conditions have historically tested his versatility, limiting his ability to employ the variations that make his game so potent. Despite this, Alcaraz’s track record speaks volumes, with numerous titles already to his name.
Reflecting on his previous experience at the ATP Finals, Alcaraz admits he feels far better prepared than last year. In 2023, he arrived in Turin worn out from a long season and was soundly defeated by the legendary Novak Djokovic in the semifinals. This time around, Alcaraz appears rejuvenated, showcasing improved form during the latter stages of this season. Notably, he captured the prestigious title in Beijing and reached the quarterfinals at the Shanghai Masters 1000 before succumbing to Jannik Sinner in the final of the “Six Kings Slam” in Saudi Arabia. His efforts illustrate a marked improvement in maintaining peak performance deep into the season.
However, the Rolex Paris Masters revealed the challenges Alcaraz still faces on particularly fast indoor surfaces. Despite entering the tournament with high hopes, he struggled and ultimately fell to France’s Ugo Humbert in the round of 16. The defeat underscored the need for further adaptation to indoor courts—an area he has been working on extensively. As he prepares for the ATP Finals in Turin, Alcaraz, currently ranked No. 3 in the world, remains determined to make a deep run before transitioning his focus to the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.
The Davis Cup holds special significance for Alcaraz this year. Representing Spain as the team’s undisputed leader, he is intent on leading his nation to victory in Malaga. Beyond the immediate goal of team triumph, there is an emotional layer to this year’s event: it will mark the final competitive appearance of his compatriot and mentor, Rafael Nadal. As one of tennis’ greatest icons prepares to retire, Alcaraz is motivated to give his all, honoring Nadal’s legacy with a strong performance.
In a recent interview with MARCA, Alcaraz shared his thoughts on Nadal’s decision to retire. “I know that the decision has already been made. I asked him if it was a tough day when he announced his retirement, if it was a tough decision to make,” Alcaraz revealed. He went on to explain, “He said yes, but it is a decision that has been carefully thought out because these decisions are not taken lightly. It was thought out with his family, with his team, these are his feelings. If someone had told me that I had a chance of convincing him to continue, I would have done it and I would have tried because I don’t want to see him off the track yet.” These heartfelt sentiments highlight the deep bond between the two Spanish stars and the respect Alcaraz has for Nadal’s storied career.
To achieve success in Turin and later in Malaga, Alcaraz knows he must refine his approach to indoor play. Renowned tennis analyst and former coach Rennae Stubbs recently weighed in on his performance challenges on indoor hard courts. On her popular podcast, Stubbs remarked, “If you have a fast court, you can come into the net because it’s harder to adjust your position to hit a winning passing shot when you’re getting rushed. So, fast courts indoors, sorry Carlos, you’re going to have to adjust your game. If not, you’re not gonna win indoors.” Stubbs pointed out that adapting to surface conditions is something even greats like Nadal have had to do, citing Nadal’s evolution on grass courts as an example. “When the grass was a little bit quicker, he had to adjust by flattening out his forehand and serve. Because he knew, ‘If I wanna win Wimbledon, I have to play to the grass’ speed.’ And he won Wimbledon.”
Alcaraz faces the daunting task of breaking a long-standing Spanish curse at the ATP Finals. No Spanish player, not even Nadal, has ever won this prestigious tournament. According to bookmakers, Alcaraz is the second favorite to lift the trophy, behind world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. The tournament draw places him in a challenging group alongside 2021 Turin champion Sascha Zverev, Casper Ruud, and Andrey Rublev. Zverev, fresh off a title win at the Rolex Paris Masters, poses a formidable challenge, as do Ruud and Rublev.
Determined to acclimate to the conditions, Alcaraz has been practicing with top-tier players like Daniil Medvedev, Zverev, and Taylor Fritz in recent days. His aim is clear: to master the indoor surface and unlock a new level of dominance. In 2024, Alcaraz has already claimed four titles, including the Indian Wells Masters 1000, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the Beijing ATP 500. A successful run in Turin could further solidify his standing as one of the sport’s brightest stars and pave the way for more glory at the Davis Cup Finals.
As Alcaraz sets his sights on Turin and beyond, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he rises to the occasion. With talent, determination, and the support of a tennis-crazed nation, the 21-year-old phenom is poised to continue making waves in the sport—and perhaps, finally break through on the indoor stage.