“Winning is winning, but managing your emotions is what matters most”, Carlos Alcaraz on the process to reach No. 1
Carlos Alcaraz reflects on the mental journey behind his rise to world No. 1.
Carlos Alcaraz, ATP Finals 2025 | © Ch. Caillaud / PsNewz
After securing his place in the ATP Finals semifinals and clinching the world No. 1 ranking, Carlos Alcaraz reflected on how he has mastered the art of controlling his form and emotions – a feat he has taken four years to achieve, at 22, which is a pretty good record in modern tennis.
“I think I’ve been playing great tennis,” Alcaraz said after defeating Musetti (6-4, 6-1) with calm confidence. “I’m just really happy that I came in Turin with confidence, knowing that I’m playing great tennis,” despite a loss in his first match at the Rolex Paris Masters, which he called “Paris Bercy,” referencing the former tournament name despite the move to Paris La Défense Arena.
Reflecting on his season, Alcaraz described 2025 as his best indoor campaign so far, after a brief hesitation when he forgot about his first trophy in Rotterdam in February.
Alcaraz did it “his way”
Despite limited experience on that surface, he feels in control. “I don’t play too many indoor tournaments per year, which means I don’t get so much experience,” he explained. “But I feel great after every match, and I hope to keep feeling even better in the semifinals.”
Alcaraz highlighted once again what he said upon arriving in Turin: he had to manage time off in his schedule to stay fresh throughout the eleven-month season. And he did ot. “It’s always about getting to know yourself, what you need on and off the court,” he added, emphasizing the self-awareness that has become central to his approach. This theme was a key part of his documentary A Mi Manera (My Way), released this spring.
Alcaraz’s journey this year has been about more than just titles and rankings; it’s about making a conscious effort to control his destiny. “I think I’ve done it pretty well,” he said, referencing his balance of physical health and mental strength.
Competing no matter what
Taking holidays doesn’t impair mental toughness. “Most of the time I don’t win when I’m not feeling my best,” he admitted, “but I compete and give myself the chance to win. I know I need to play at a high level, even when I’m not at my best.”
“Winning is winning,” he summed up with trademark humility, “but I think what matters most is how you manage your level and emotions, especially when you’re at your best or your worst.”
Alcaraz took an hour and a half to come and meet the media after his win. This exceptionally long wait reflected that he took some time to celebrate—but not that much, he insists. “The tournament is not finished.” By becoming world No. 1, Alcaraz has ticked only one of his two boxes.
