Carlos Alcaraz has been in fine form at the US Open, winning all three of his matches in straight sets, and the Spaniard’s behaviour off the court has also been praised
Andy Roddick has hailed Carlos Alcaraz’s laid-back personality and highlighted the former US Open champion’s class for making time for supporters and workers at the tournament. The Spanish sensation has gone through three rounds of the Grand Slam competition without losing a single set, defeating Reilly Opelka, Mattia Bellucci and Luciano Darderi.
The world No. 2 is chasing his sixth Grand Slam title, though a possible clash with tennis legend Novak Djokovic could await Alcaraz should he reach the semi-final. A showdown with old foe Jannik Sinner might also be on the cards if they both make the final, with the Spaniard eyeing revenge after losing the Wimbledon showpiece earlier this summer.
The 22-year-old has claimed six trophies this year, including the French Open, and is targeting his second major victory in 2025. Regardless of results on the court, Alcaraz is often praised for his smiley demeanour and positive attitude.
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And this hasn’t gone unnoticed with former tennis star Roddick. During his podcast, Served with Andy Roddick, the American shared his delight at witnessing Alcaraz dedicate time to everyone at Flushing Meadows, irrespective of their position or background.
The ex-US Open champion said: « I’ll tell you the little things, like I’m walking from 30 feet away to exit to go to where you get transportation yesterday.
« He’s walking in, talking to everyone, everyone running the security gates and walking in. He literally has time for every conversation on the way. And it’s not put on. It’s just the way he is. »
Roddick added: « I wasn’t one to want to small talk when I was going to work. I just wasn’t.
« But the game’s better. Every single person that comes across him, no matter what their job is at the US Open, goes, ‘You know what? I really like that guy.’ He just has an easy smile. He’s just easy to be around. »
Roddick is not alone in his view of Alcaraz; even Daniil Medvedev spoke positively about Spainard’s character after losing to him in the 2023 Indian Wells final. The Russian said during the trophy presentation: « You are probably the most respectful player on tour, saying hello to 300 people per day. »
Following his straight-sets triumph over Darderi in the third round, Alcaraz confessed he was particularly pleased with the result, given he’s « not an early person » and struggles with morning matches.
« I’m not an early person, » said Alcaraz. « For me, it’s difficult to wake up in the mornings. That’s one of the good things about today – I woke up early, did the warm-up and played good.
« I just tried to start awake. Starting at 11:30 is something I’m not used to, so my first goal was to start well, focused, with energy and a good rhythm.
« I started pretty well, pushing him to the limit and trying to play long rallies. I played great tennis and I’m really proud about it. »
The young Spaniard’s next challenge is a round of 16 showdown against Arthur Rinderknech on Sunday, with a quarter-final spot at stake. While he’ll be taking it one match at a time, there’s no doubt he’s got his eyes firmly set on another major singles title, which would put him two in front of his closest competitor, Sinner.
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