New era of Alcaraz: Becomes first non Big Four player to be seeded No.1 at Wimbledon since 2003

Monday, 26 June 2023 at 20:30

Carlos Alcaraz is the first player to be the top seed who is not part of the Big-4 since 2023.

The young star Carlos Alcaraz is the most emblematic tennis player as a successor to the four players who have dominated the circuit in the last 20 years. While Novak Djokovic is still in great form, Roger Federer has retired, Rafael Nadal is nearing retirement and will be absent throughout 2023, and Andy Murray is far from the level that led him to win 3 Grand Slams.

Alcaraz reclaimed the world No. 1 spot this week after defeating Alex de Minaur in the final of the Queen's Club Championship with a score of 6-4, 6-4, capturing his first grass-court title. The Spanish player defeated Arthur Ridnerknech, Jiri Leheckaaa, Grigor Dimitrov, and Sebastiano Korda along the way, proving that he is a contender at Wimbledon despite his limited experience on the surface.

“It means a lot to me. Being able to win this amazing tournament in my first time that I played here for me is fantastic. To know that I’m [capable of] a good level on grass, obviously [to be] champion of every tournament feels special.

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As the top seed at Wimbledon and back at the top of the rankings, Alcaraz will be the first player to enter Wimbledon as the favorite after 20 years dominated by the Big-4. The last time this happened was in 2003, with Lleyton Hewitt as the top seed, Roger Federer as the 4th seed (who went on to win the tournament), Rafael Nadal making his debut outside the top 70, and both Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic not being part of the main draw.

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Alcaraz appreciated returning to the world No. 1, but he said that it doesn't change much compared to playing as the second seed:

“Of course, recovering the No. 1 before Wimbledon, it gives you extra motivation, it gives you extra confidence coming into Wimbledon. But it doesn’t change too much if I play Wimbledon as the No. 2 or the No. 1,” Alcaraz said.

After being crowned champion at Queen's, 'Carlitos' will not be playing any tournaments this week and is preparing for his debut at Wimbledon next week.

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Carlos Alcaraz hits a forehand while falling down & wins the point. What can’t this kid do?

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4:02 PM · Jun 20, 2023

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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

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