Carlos Alcaraz admits he was nervous

Carlos Alcaraz was able to make his debut at Wimbledon at the start of his crown defense against the Estonian Mark Lajal, whom he defeated in three sets this Monday.

Carlos Alcaraz & Novak Djokovic, 2023 Wimbledon© Patrick Smith / Staff – Getty Images Sport

The young Spaniard added the 18th victory of his career on grass, a surface in which he has barely three defeats so far, impressive numbers for the young man of 21 years, who reviewed his first presentation in the Cathedral of tennis before the media.

Carlos Alcaraz is not shy

“Before I stepped on the central I was nervous because it is the most beautiful court in the world, and that creates that feeling,” explained defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

“On Thursday I trained for 45 minutes and I was also nervous. I tried not to think of last year’s memories. When I walk around here it’s clear that I remember things, and that’s a feeling I like,” added world number three.

Carlos Alcaraz & Novak Djokovic, 2023 Wimbledon© Julian Finney / Staff – Getty Images Sport

Alcaraz explained how he handled emotions in an imposing setting and highlighted the positive side of nerves if handled correctly.

“Having those nerves is a good thing if you control them. If you let them control you… that’s when things don’t go well. It’s something that comes naturally, and it’s good. I think that Djokovic, Federer or Rafa surely felt those nerves when they jumped to the central to play their games,” said the tennis player from Murcia.

Beyond the triumph, the one led by Juan Carlos Ferrero pointed out the best he should do and was positive with the victory, with the level displayed. “I’ve looked good. Obviously, I like to look for perfection.

The Spaniard reached the 27th victory in 33 games so far this year and at just 21 years old will seek the fourth Grand Slam of his career, trying to become the ninth knight to defend his title at Wimbledon after what reached figures such as Rod Laver, John Newcombe, Bjorn Borg, John McEnroe, Boris Becker, Pete Sampras, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.