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In the year With the 2023 Barcelona Open underway, let’s take a look back at last year’s tournament, when Carlos Alcaraz almost lost his chance to become the champion.
Alcaraz could have faced Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the semi-finals, but he was put in a tough spot after failing to make the cut, which could have already forced him out of the tournament. from the rest of the competition.
«I thought I wouldn’t be able to make the semifinals, and it was hard for me to get through,» the Spanish star said in an interview with Tennis TV.
The teenager spoke about how he feels about the collapse of the ranking and expressed his concern that it could affect his semi-final. However, the youngster still pushed through the pain to win the last four matches 6-7, 7-6, 6-4 against the Australian.
After the match, he asked if he experienced any pain or discomfort while playing. The rising star assured his fans and interviewers that it was full of adrenaline that helped him forget the pain.
«No, because of the adrenaline, when you play, you forget everything and focus on playing,» Alcaraz said.
He also said that his doctor and physio played an important role for the star to compete at his best.
The 19-year-old said: «Obviously with my doctor and physio they did some things to keep me from feeling the pain.
Alcaraz will no doubt be cautious when using any standards, hoping not to find himself in the same situation he found himself in last year.
«Now, I’m very careful when I’m on stage,» said the Spaniard.
Despite the ranking issue, the young star went on to play in the final against Pablo Carreno Busta. It was a fun and easy game for Alcaraz, who took the lead throughout the match and won the Barcelona Open for the first time in their history. The 6-3, 6-2 final proved that Alcaraz not only has the ability to be the best, but also the mentality to do so.
Alcaraz will make his Barcelona Open debut in 2023 in the round of 32 against Nuno Borge on Tuesday. The reigning champion will be looking to get off to a good start in the tournament as he looks to retain his crown.
Read more: Carlos Alcaraz talks about his title defense at the Barcelona Open
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