Carlos Alcaraz Hits Back at Critics After an Inconsistent Start to the Tennis Season.
Carlos Alcaraz, one of tennis’ brightest young stars, has responded defiantly to critics questioning his form after an up-and-down start to the 2025 season. The 21-year-old Spaniard, who has already captured two Grand Slam titles and climbed to the top of the ATP rankings in previous years, admitted that while his start hasn’t been ideal, he remains confident in his long-term goals and ability.
When Carlitos smiles, we all smile 😁@ROLEXMCMASTERS | #RolexMonteCarloMasters pic.twitter.com/wrVie1yqIH
— ATP Tour (@atptour) April 6, 2025
Alcaraz’s season so far has been a rollercoaster, with early exits in several tournaments and a noticeable dip in the explosiveness that defined his meteoric rise. His third-round loss at the Australian Open sparked a wave of speculation about his physical condition and mindset, with pundits questioning whether the pressure of expectations was beginning to take its toll.
But speaking to reporters ahead of the Monte Carlo Masters, Alcaraz addressed the criticism directly.
> “I know people talk when things don’t go perfectly. That’s part of the sport,” he said. “But I’ve learned not to listen too much to the noise. I work every day with the same hunger and discipline. A few tough matches won’t change that.”
Alcaraz emphasized that managing physical health and adapting to new challenges on the tour are part of growing as a professional.
The cleanest of @carlosalcaraz racket catches 😮💨#RolexMonteCarloMasters pic.twitter.com/QXRHiUxW8m
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 6, 2025
> “I’ve had to adjust some things in my game and training to stay healthy and keep improving,” he explained. “This is a long season. I’d rather build steadily and peak when it matters most — the Grand Slams and big tournaments.”
His coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, echoed those sentiments, noting that Alcaraz’s maturity and commitment are stronger than ever.
> “He’s learning how to handle adversity, and that will make him even better,” Ferrero said. “These moments are where champions are made.”
Despite the early setbacks, Alcaraz has shown flashes of brilliance in his recent matches and remains a top contender on clay — his favorite surface. With the French Open just over a month away, he has a prime opportunity to silence doubters and reclaim his dominant form.
“I’m just getting started,” Alcaraz said with a smile. “There’s a lot more to come.”
As the European clay-court swing heats up, the tennis world will be watching closely to see if Alcaraz can turn the tide and remind everyone why he’s considered the future of the sport.