The defending champion secured his spot in the fourth round of the tournament on Friday with a dominant 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 victory over Wu Yibing. Despite the lengthy layoff since his withdrawal from the Barcelona Open in April, Alcaraz expressed surprise at how well his body has responded to the rigors of competitive play, noting that he has experienced no setbacks during his time in New York.
Prioritizing mental health over constant competition
Reflecting on the demands of the professional tour, Alcaraz highlighted the challenges of the relentless tennis calendar. He noted that the constant cycle of events often leaves players feeling underprepared for major tournaments. By intentionally scheduling longer breaks, the Spaniard aims to ensure he arrives at Grand Slams and Masters 1000 events in peak condition, both physically and mentally.
Alcaraz, who played 80 matches last year and holds seven major titles including this year's Australian Open, explained that his primary goal is to maintain a sense of enjoyment on the court. He admitted that the intensity of the tour can sometimes lead to a loss of enthusiasm, and he believes that stepping away periodically will help him retain his passion for the sport.
New routines and on-court adjustments
Beyond his scheduling plans, Alcaraz also addressed some lighter topics following his latest win. The world-class talent debuted a new on-court look, opting for a base layer under his sleeveless shirt to address wardrobe issues he encountered in previous matches. He also introduced a new celebration, mimicking the action of firing an arrow, which he revealed was a suggestion from his brothers.
As he continues his campaign at the US Open, Alcaraz remains focused on the immediate task at hand while keeping an eye on his long-term career management. His ability to perform at a high level after a significant break has reinforced his belief that a more balanced schedule will ultimately benefit his performance and overall happiness on the professional circuit.
