Carlos Alcaraz’s journey at the Shanghai Masters ended at the quarter-final stage, with the young Spanish star falling to an inspired Thomas Machac of the Czech Republic. While the defeat marked a moment of inconsistency in Alcaraz’s season, it also provided a unique opportunity for the 21-year-old: quality time and practice sessions with tennis legend Roger Federer. For a player already considered one of the sport’s rising greats, this interaction offered invaluable insights into the art of tennis mastery and longevity.
Alcaraz’s exit from the Shanghai tournament followed his victory at the China Open, where he defeated rival and current ATP number two, Jannik Sinner. The win was a high point amid a season that has oscillated between spectacular success and unexpected setbacks. Alcaraz’s year has been defined by both triumphs and challenges, including capturing two Grand Slam titles: the French Open, where he bested Alexander Zverev in straight sets, and Wimbledon, where he claimed victory on the hallowed grass courts in July. However, inconsistency marred his campaign as well. A shocking second-round defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp at the US Open and a similarly disappointing early exit at the Paris Masters left questions about his form and durability during the latter part of the season.
Despite these recent setbacks, Alcaraz used his time at the Shanghai Masters wisely, drawing on the wisdom of Federer, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history. The Swiss icon, who officially retired from professional play in 2022, remains an active ambassador and an occasional participant in tennis events. Alcaraz, an ardent admirer of Federer, relished the chance to learn directly from him.
Speaking to *Marca* ahead of the ATP Finals in Turin, Alcaraz shared his awe at training alongside Federer. “The timing is there. Roger will always have that quality,” he reflected, describing Federer’s signature grace and fluidity on the court. “He played so easily with me,” Alcaraz said, emphasizing how Federer’s movements seemed effortless despite his retirement from competitive play. “He hit the ball so easily, so naturally, with such elegance.”
Federer’s level of play, even during practice, left a lasting impression on Alcaraz. “It seemed as if he had never retired,” Alcaraz said, marveling at how seamlessly Federer retained his touch and instincts. “Obviously when the point was extended he was like he was, but the feeling I had was that he never retired.” For Alcaraz, the experience went beyond simple admiration; it was a chance to glean lessons in precision, composure, and professionalism from a player whose legacy transcends generations.
Throughout their time together in Shanghai, Alcaraz and Federer practiced, exchanged stories, and discussed the nuances of the sport. Alcaraz expressed his gratitude for Federer’s generosity and willingness to share his insights. The two spent significant time on and off the court, with Alcaraz absorbing every bit of advice from the 20-time Grand Slam champion. Their sessions covered everything from footwork to match tactics, providing the young Spaniard with new perspectives as he prepares for the final stretch of the season.
Reflecting on this year, Alcaraz remains one of the most captivating figures in tennis. His blend of power, agility, and court intelligence has earned comparisons to icons like Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. Yet, the recent inconsistency points to areas where growth is needed—mental resilience, consistency, and perhaps pacing himself better throughout the grueling ATP season. Spending time with Federer could prove pivotal, offering a blueprint for maintaining a peak career while navigating the inevitable ebbs and flows of professional sports.
Alcaraz’s focus now shifts to the ATP Finals in Turin, where he will seek to end the year on a high note. Facing the sport’s top competitors, he has the opportunity to display the lessons learned and make a statement about his intentions for the upcoming season. “The conversation with Roger motivated me,” he said. “He has this way of making tennis seem so beautiful and so simple. I want to take that into my matches.”
As Alcaraz prepares to take on the best in Turin, the experience of training with Federer offers a unique source of inspiration. Beyond skills and tactics, Federer’s enduring legacy serves as a reminder of the possibilities that lie ahead. For Alcaraz, who is still at the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable career, learning from a legend may be just what he needs to consolidate his place among the game’s elite and achieve new heights.
The Spaniard’s 2024 season may have seen its fair share of highs and lows, but his drive to improve and his willingness to learn, even in defeat, demonstrate why he remains one of the sport’s most promising talents. While he may have fallen short in Shanghai, the wisdom gained from his interactions with Federer could be the key to greater success in the future. Alcaraz’s journey continues, with eyes firmly set on reclaiming his best form and solidifying his status as one of the sport’s brightest stars.