Carlos Alcaraz, one of the rising stars in men’s tennis, has described his recent training session with Roger Federer as an “unbelievable experience” that will remain a cherished memory in his career. Alcaraz, who is regarded as one of the top young talents in men’s tennis, had the unique opportunity to train with Federer, a legend often cited as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Their training session took place earlier this year at the Shanghai Masters, giving the young Spaniard a front-row seat to Federer’s renowned skills and insights.
Alcaraz, who has quickly risen through the ranks and currently competes alongside top-tier players such as Italy’s Jannik Sinner, was thrilled to share the court with Federer, who boasts an impressive 20 Grand Slam titles. Reflecting on the experience, Alcaraz shared his enthusiasm in a recent interview with Eurosport. “It was an unbelievable experience for me,” Alcaraz said. “Having the chance to play with him was great. I enjoyed so much, every shot, watching him play the shots so easily. It was a dream, really. It was a great experience. I had the chance to talk a lot with him, ask him some questions about his time on the tour. It was a masterclass, honestly, from him.”
The training session with Federer seemed to leave a profound impact on Alcaraz. His description of the practice emphasized not only his admiration for Federer’s skill but also his appreciation for the Swiss player’s unique style. Federer, known for his graceful movement and impeccable technique, demonstrated to Alcaraz the ease with which he handled shots that others might find difficult. For Alcaraz, it wasn’t just about hitting balls back and forth; it was a valuable learning experience where he could observe firsthand how one of the all-time greats approached the game. This opportunity to gain insights directly from Federer was more than just a training session; it was a “masterclass” that Alcaraz said he would remember for a long time.
Alcaraz’s chance to train with Federer comes at a critical point in his career. The young Spaniard has already achieved notable success, including a Grand Slam title, and has become one of the most promising players on the ATP Tour. Federer, who retired from professional tennis in September 2022, has long been a source of inspiration for players around the world. The Swiss maestro was the first player in the Open Era to surpass 15 Grand Slam titles, eventually claiming a record 20 major championships—a milestone that stood as the benchmark for future generations.
During their time together on the court, Alcaraz reportedly took the opportunity to ask Federer questions about his experiences as a professional, seeking insights into how he navigated the highs and lows of an extensive career. Federer’s guidance could prove invaluable as Alcaraz continues to refine his game and work towards his goal of joining the ranks of the sport’s elite. The Swiss champion’s advice and reflections are expected to play a key role in shaping Alcaraz’s mindset as he faces the challenges that come with competing at the highest level of the sport.
Currently, Alcaraz is competing in the Paris Masters, one of the most prestigious tournaments outside the four Grand Slams, and he has already made an impressive start. After defeating Chile’s Nicolas Jarry in the second round with a score of 7-5, 6-1, Alcaraz secured his place in the round of 16, demonstrating his continuing growth and consistency on the court. The Paris Masters is part of Alcaraz’s journey to maintain a top ranking as he competes against some of the best players in the world. A strong performance here could reinforce his status as one of the leading figures in the new generation of tennis stars.
Federer’s impact on the sport remains profound, even after his retirement. Beyond his achievements, which include an unprecedented level of consistency and elegance, Federer has left an indelible mark on those who have had the privilege to know or play with him. His interactions with younger players like Alcaraz reflect his willingness to give back to the sport and share the wisdom he has accumulated over two decades of competing at the highest level. For Federer, moments like these allow him to stay connected to the game and contribute to the development of future champions.
Alcaraz’s experience with Federer also speaks to the enduring influence of tennis legends on younger generations. While Alcaraz is creating his own path, Federer’s presence and advice can help him navigate the challenges ahead. Federer’s words and his approach to the game may serve as guiding principles as Alcaraz aims to become a multi-Grand Slam champion and a role model for aspiring players.
In the coming years, Alcaraz will likely draw on this experience, both on and off the court, as he works towards cementing his own legacy in tennis. His description of the session as a “dream” reveals just how much he values the mentorship of a player like Federer. It’s a reminder of the sport’s unique ability to bring together athletes from different eras, fostering an environment of mutual respect and shared passion for the game.
For Alcaraz, training with Federer is more than just a career highlight; it’s a step in his journey toward greatness, influenced by one of the all-time greats. As he continues his quest for more titles and accolades, this moment may well be one he revisits for inspiration, a reminder of the knowledge and encouragement he received from a legend as he works to become one himself.