Alcaraz: Many opponents are studying my playing style, so I need to be well prepared.

On February 15 local time, world No.1 Alcaraz held a pre-tournament press conference in Doha. The Spaniard, who recently triumphed in Melbourne achieving a career Grand Slam, will make his first post-Australian Open appearance here. He expressed that his motivation remains steady. The Doha tournament features a strong field, and Alcaraz could meet his longtime rival Sinner once more in the final.

Photo of Alcaraz

"Obviously, I am very aware that I have already achieved great success, winning some of the top events in tennis," Alcaraz said in an interview. "But I can still see my weaknesses. I know many players are studying my style, trying to catch up and surpass me. They analyze how I play, aiming to beat me and challenge me."

"I have to be ready for that. I need to understand my level and where my tennis stands. I must think from my opponents’ perspective and anticipate what tactics they will use against me. That’s why I feel I still need to improve. My level cannot stagnate; I have to keep moving forward."

Among the opponents Alcaraz mentioned, Sinner is undoubtedly the one to watch. The Italian is seeded No.2 in Doha’s draw, meaning the two could face off for the 17th time in a high-stakes final. Last year, Alcaraz made the quarterfinals in his Doha debut, and this year he hopes to go even further.

"I know every match is tough and each one is different. Our playing styles are completely distinct," Alcaraz said ahead of his first-round match against Lindeknech. "For an ATP 500 event, I think the draw is quite challenging. Even the first round will be very exciting."

"So my plan is to focus on one match at a time and see how far I can go. Of course, I will give my all to achieve the best result possible. Reaching the final would be great and that’s what I aim for. But right now, I won’t think too far ahead—I just want to take it day by day."

"Since arriving in Doha, my team and I have set some goals for this tournament," Alcaraz revealed. "We don’t talk about results at all; we focus solely on the process of getting better and constantly growing. There are things I want to improve, and I look forward to elevating my tennis to a new level. That’s exactly what I want to show and achieve in this event. If I manage that, it will be a very successful week—not just in terms of results, but because I will feel I am doing the right things both on and off the court."

(Translation by Wang Fei, Photo/Visual China)