"I consider myself one of them" - Alcaraz about the best players in the world

Carlos Alcaraz has been one of the best players in the world this year posting a 23-3 record overall and climbing to a career-high ranking of number 9.

The Spaniard has been playing with a newfound confidence that is reflected in his results. It only grew from the time he won the Rio Open at the start of the year and he added the Miami Masters and Barcelona Open as well. He's top 3 race with only two players earning more points so far than him. It's a fact that he's been one of the best and he asserted as much ahead of the Madrid Open saying:

"I think I grew up a lot as a player and person. Last year I live these types of moments that helped me get the experience and playing with the best player in the world. Now I consider myself one of them. I'm ninth."

Alcaraz's birthday is on Thursday and in order to play on his birthday, he'll have to win his 2nd round matchup. He hopes he will because he wants to experience one more special moment in Madrid after playing Rafael Nadal last year.