Tim Henman has offered a measured response to critics who have questioned Carlos Alcaraz’s playing style following his 2024 Australian Open quarter-final defeat to Alexander Zverev. The young Spanish star, known for his aggressive tactics and high-risk shots, faced scrutiny after a performance that many saw as inconsistent and overly adventurous. Henman, however, was quick to caution against rushing to judgment, suggesting that Alcaraz’s approach, while daring, is also what makes him one of the sport’s most exciting prospects.
Alcaraz’s defeat to Zverev came after a roller-coaster four-set match. While he showed flashes of brilliance, he was also erratic, particularly in the opening sets. Down 2-5 in the third set, the world No. 2 staged a remarkable comeback to take the set in a tiebreaker, displaying both his resilience and signature bold shot-making. However, Zverev ultimately clinched the match in the fourth, leaving Alcaraz to reflect on a contest where his aggressive style didn’t entirely pay off.
Following the loss, tennis legend Mats Wilander weighed in, suggesting that Alcaraz’s relentless aggression could be a double-edged sword. Wilander pointed out that the 20-year-old’s approach, while successful in last year’s Wimbledon final against Novak Djokovic, was perhaps not suited to an opponent like Zverev, whose powerful serve demands precision and control. “The first few points in the match are what worries most people. You can’t do that when you play against Alexander Zverev,” Wilander told Eurosport.
Wilander highlighted a moment from Alcaraz’s Wimbledon final, where he executed back-to-back drop shots against Djokovic, winning one and losing the other. For Wilander, this high-risk approach is reminiscent of Nick Kyrgios, known for his audacious style and willingness to entertain at the expense of strategy. “Alcaraz is sort of similar to Kyrgios. You admire his guts, but sometimes his shot choices can cost him.”
Henman, however, urged a more cautious perspective. While he acknowledged that Alcaraz’s approach may come with risks, he argued that it’s precisely this fearless style that has brought the young Spaniard considerable success and made him a fan favorite. “We need to be careful of what we wish for,” Henman replied to Wilander’s critique. The British former world No. 4, known himself for a refined and controlled game, suggested that Alcaraz’s unique style should be nurtured rather than tempered.
Joining Henman in support of Alcaraz, former British player Laura Robson argued that his recent performances are likely just a phase, not indicative of a need to overhaul his strategy. “There’s no panic for Carlos because he’s having a bit of a slump—I wouldn’t even call it that—post-Wimbledon,” Robson explained. “A couple of months where he hasn’t quite played as disciplined as he did there. It’s a bit of discipline that he’s lacking in his game because he wants to go for all of these crazy shots, but that’s half the fun. That’s why you pick up a racquet in the first place.”
Robson’s remarks underscore the idea that Alcaraz’s flair and spontaneity are part of what makes him special. She emphasized that his high-risk style brings a sense of excitement and unpredictability, which is why fans flock to watch him. “No stress, no drama,” Robson added. “We’re going to be talking about him for another 10 or 15 years.” For Robson, there is no reason to stifle Alcaraz’s natural game, even if it occasionally leads to inconsistency.
Former world No. 7 Barbara Schett also offered her perspective on Alcaraz’s evolving game. She acknowledged that, at times, the young star’s shot selection may lack discipline but emphasized that this is normal for a player of his age. Unlike Kyrgios, Gael Monfils, or Frances Tiafoe, whom she views as “showmen,” Schett sees Alcaraz as more focused, even if he occasionally gets carried away by his enthusiasm. “He’s not very disciplined with his shot selection,” Schett remarked. “That was the case [against Zverev]. We have to give him some time; those matches don’t happen that often anymore.”
Alcaraz’s meteoric rise in the world of tennis has set high expectations for his performance, and his aggressive playstyle is both his strength and, at times, his Achilles’ heel. His victory over Djokovic at Wimbledon last year showcased his remarkable ability to balance power with precision. However, his Australian Open quarter-final loss highlights the challenges of maintaining that balance consistently, especially against big-serving opponents like Zverev.
As Henman, Wilander, Robson, and Schett each bring their perspectives to Alcaraz’s evolving game, the consensus seems to lean towards patience. Alcaraz’s youth and enthusiasm mean that he will naturally make mistakes, but his boldness is what makes him stand out. His aggressive approach, marked by daring shot choices and relentless pursuit of points, has earned him not only titles but also a fan base that appreciates his fearless approach.
The debate over Alcaraz’s style raises broader questions about the nature of tennis and the balance between strategy and spontaneity. While some, like Wilander, advocate for a more calculated approach, others, like Henman and Robson, see value in allowing Alcaraz to retain his individuality. In a sport where discipline is paramount, Alcaraz’s unpredictability adds an element of excitement, making him a unique presence on the court.
For Alcaraz, the key to future success may lie in refining his approach without losing the spirit that has brought him to this level. His ability to bounce back in the third set against Zverev shows that he has the resilience and adaptability to go far. However, as he matures, he will likely learn to strike a better balance between aggression and control, especially against players who can exploit his high-risk strategy.
In the meantime, Alcaraz’s fans and critics alike will watch closely as he continues to navigate the challenges of the ATP tour. Whether he chooses to adjust his style or stay true to his instincts, one thing is clear: Carlos Alcaraz is a player whose journey will be captivating for years to come. The discussions sparked by his game reflect a larger conversation about the evolution of tennis and the next generation of players who are reshaping the sport. Alcaraz, with his electrifying energy and distinctive style, is at the forefront of that evolution, promising an exciting future for tennis.