Carlos Alcaraz has made the honest confession that he “dreams big” and “keeps thinking about” Novak Djokovic’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles.
The world No 2 revealed Djokovic’s major record is “a goal at the end of my career” and explained his competitiveness drives him to “try to be at the same level as the Big Three.”
Alcaraz, who will turn 21 in May, has already won two Grand Slam titles, having triumphed at the 2022 US Open and the 2023 Wimbledon Championships.
The Spaniard defeated Casper Ruud in four sets in the final at Flushing Meadows to secure his maiden major — a victory that made him the youngest ATP world No 1 ever.
The 20-year-old then edged out Djokovic in an epic five-set championship match at Wimbledon last year to end the great Serbian’s 34-match winning streak at the All England Club.
Djokovic claimed the other three Grand Slam titles in 2023 as he took his major tally to a men’s record of 24 — surpassing his great rival Rafael Nadal, who has 22.
Alcaraz admitted the world No 1’s remarkable major total is something that occupies his mind, while also naming both Djokovic and Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner as his two main rivals.
“Obviously, I keep thinking about Nole’s 24 Grand Slams, that’s clear, but right now Djokovic and [Jannik] Sinner I think are the players to beat: they are at a very high level that few people can beat them,” he told Ole ahead of the Argentina Open in Buenos Aires.
“But since I’m a very ambitious guy and I always want to think big, and I dream big, obviously Djokovic’s 24 is a goal at the end of my career. Now let’s wait to see where I get to, because maybe I get to five, maybe I stay at two.
“However, it is something that is inevitable to think about. I am very competitive and that is also what drives me to the highest level to try to be at the same level as the Big Three. The truth is that I dream big.”
Alcaraz was also asked if he is able to have a break and enjoy the cities he visits for tournaments, including Buenos Aires, where he is competing this week.
“The truth is that I like it and in every place I go I try to dedicate a day to visiting the city to visit it a little. Here, in Argentina, we walked a little through San Telmo and Puerto Madero with my team and my family. The idea was, even if just a little, to get to know Buenos Aires more,” the Spaniard continued.
“There are always moments to enjoy. Yes, it is true that you are focused on the tournament, on training, on day-to-day life and there is little room to, perhaps, take advantage of the city or go for a walk and so on, but being with your loved ones is enjoyable.”