Mumbai: From the chaotic red clay of Paris to the immaculate greens of London and the vibrant concrete of New York, Carlos Alcaraz has infused these three prominent tennis cities and their unique courts with his remarkable talent. His infectious smile during matches, his powerful forehand, and his astonishing drop shot have all contributed to the legacy of this Spanish maestro and champion, who has achieved success in his distinctive manner.

However, in Melbourne, the scene has been somewhat subdued, a stark contrast to Alcaraz's usual brilliance.

As we enter 2025, the courts of Melbourne Park are still yearning for the brilliance of this Spanish prodigy. This is particularly surprising given the significant accomplishments of the four-time Grand Slam champion at just 21 years of age. Last year, Alcaraz secured his first French Open title and successfully defended his Wimbledon crown, triumphing over Novak Djokovic in the final. Coupled with his 2022 US Open victory, he became the youngest player in history to win Grand Slam titles on all three surfaces.

This sets the stage for Alcaraz as he approaches this year's season-opening Grand Slam, with heightened expectations. He aims to achieve a historic milestone at the Australian Open by becoming the youngest player to complete the career Grand Slam, surpassing his idol Rafael Nadal.

If there was ever an opportune moment for Alcaraz to make a significant impact in Australia, it is now. Likewise, if there was ever a fitting time to expand his collection of tattoos—each commemorating his victories at the US Open, Wimbledon, and the French Open—it is now.

“I want to get a tattoo of a kangaroo,” Alcaraz shared in a recent interview with Marca.

There appears to be no clear explanation for why this versatile player, equipped with a comprehensive skill set, has struggled to demonstrate his capabilities at the Australian Open. Alcaraz faced elimination in the quarter-finals last year, following a series of early exits in previous tournaments. His latest defeats were against formidable opponents known for their potential to dominate on any given day—Alexander Zverev in 2024 and Matteo Berrettini in 2022. Additionally, Alcaraz has encountered a streak of misfortune at the season's opening Grand Slam.

In 2023, after achieving his first Grand Slam victory at the 2022 US Open, a hamstring injury hindered his participation in the subsequent tournament in Melbourne. In 2024, although he did compete, he was without his long-time coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero. For a player renowned for his dynamic play and diverse shot-making, Ferrero's guidance is instrumental in harnessing his energy. Alcaraz acknowledged last year that it would be "challenging to approach a major tournament without him."

Nonetheless, a discernible trend is emerging regarding Alcaraz's difficulties at the beginning and conclusion of a season. In both 2022 and 2023, despite holding 16 ATP titles, he secured his first trophy of the year only after the tour transitioned to the clay season. Last year, he did manage to claim a hard-court title at Indian Wells, but that achievement came more than two months into the season. Once he finds his rhythm, he becomes a formidable force, as evidenced by his six ATP titles from March to July 2023 and two mid-season Grand Slam victories in 2024. However, he often requires time to reach that level, which highlights his susceptibility during the season-opening Grand Slam and his less-than-stellar performance record there.

His choice to forgo any preparatory events this year, a common practice among elite players, is also noteworthy. Alcaraz last participated in an ATP warm-up event in Melbourne in 2021, where he had to navigate the qualifying rounds at the Australian Open. Since then, his appearances have been limited to exhibition matches. Around those low-pressure outings, though, the youngster has put in the hours through an extended pre-season training block at home in Murcia and Villena. Some key changes in his serve (more variety) and forehand (more order) have reportedly been brought in. Ferrero has in the past stressed about getting his on-court movement and game to be a lot more consistent to go with the flashy. A touch of consistency to his overall season — a second-round exit at the 2024 US Open doesn’t sit well there — would also add richly to his greatness-achieving promise.

In 2025, I aspire to enhance my performance and demonstrate greater consistency," Alcaraz stated. 

A stronger and more profound beginning to the season at the Australian Open would significantly contribute to that goal.

Read Also: Key Players Under Scrutiny: Rohit, Bumrah, and Shami Ahead of Champions Trophy

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!