Carlos Alcaraz sealed the
Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell on Sunday and as ever comparisons in particular to Rafael Nadal and other big name players continue.
But speaking post tournament, he wants to blaze his own trail and be his own player creating his own history.
“As I've always said on more than one occasion, I don't want to take over from anyone,” he said as
Eurosport.
“I feel lucky to have so many people supporting me behind me, transmitting that positive energy from the first game.
“Speaking of this week, it's been two years that Rafa hasn't been there, I've been lucky, or let's say I won't win the title. But as I've always said, I've always wanted to play against the best.
“It is a pity that we have not been able to enjoy Rafa these last two years. Let's hope he continues playing for a long time and we can enjoy his tennis, but obviously we're not here to take over from anyone, but to build our own history."
Now the mindset shifts to Madrid and for Alcaraz, it wouldn't be a failure not to win and believes it depends on what level shows up from himself.
“We always go to each tournament thinking that we can win, trying to do our best,” he said.
“Not winning Madrid would not be a failure for me, it depends on the level I have shown and the matches.
“All the players are very good, they can all win the title and they can beat me. For me, failure would depend on the level I show and the way I play.”
“Roland Garros is a clear short-term goal,” he concluded.
“It is a tournament that I really want to win, but right now we are focused on Madrid and Rome."
