Carlos Alcaraz is all set to delight tennis fans in Puerto Rico, come March 2025. The former World No.1 and four-time Grand Slam winner will face American pro and former World No.10 Frances Tiafoe in an exhibition match. And the excitement for this ‘Battle of Legends’ seems to be sky high. Thanks to the star power of the Spaniard and Tiafoe, tickets for this awaited face-off have sold out in just 24 hours. And the organizers can’t thank these two talents enough!
On March 2nd, 2025, the Spaniard will face Frances in what’s turning out to be an epic showdown in Puerto Rico’s Coliseum, in San Juan. “We know it will be a very good match with a high quality of tennis from both,” said former WTA pro and Puerto Rico’s 2016 Olympic Gold medalist Monica Puig while talking to EFE, as reported by AM850 on December 22. Monica will be the presenter and commentator during the one-night extravaganza. Ever since the tickets for this encounter went live, the interest of fans has been astonishing, to say the least. It becomes evident from the fact that 8,500 tickets have already sold out, as reported by wapa.tv on Saturday.
“Carlos Alcaraz is a global phenomenon with offers from all over the world and the fact that he decided to play in Puerto Rico puts us on the map. We have to thank Julio and the VRDG team for investing in this and making it happen; it is something historic. With millions of followers around the world, his current relevance is crucial for Puerto Rican sport and for inspiring our new generations,” said Pedro Ochoa, Tennis Director of Bahía Beach St. Regis, Torrimar Tennis Club, San Francisco, Baldwin School and 8A Tennis Academy.
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With a budget of $3 million, this event promises to be a significant economic driver, fostering local development and creating a ripple effect within the orange economy. Mariela Vallines Fernandez, executive director of the Puerto Rico Convention District Authority, couldn’t thank Carlos Alcaraz and Frances much after witnessing rapid ticket sales.
“Bringing an event of this world caliber to Puerto Rico is an achievement for all Puerto Ricans and a pride for our sport. This will have a multiplier effect on our economy, strengthening tourism and trade of the creative economy on the Island,” she said.
With ticket sales already brisk three months ahead of the event, a full house is anticipated at the Puerto Rico Coliseum. This echoes the resounding success of the last edition featuring Monica Puig and Venus Williams, which drew a crowd of over 16,000 eager spectators. With the inclusion of Carlos and Frances, the craze is surely expected to accelerate even further. Not to mention fans will also witness their fun banter on the court! But why so?
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When Carlos Alcaraz revealed his true feelings for rival Frances Tiafoe
Earlier this month, during a press conference ahead of the Charlotte Invitational, Alcaraz had a lot to say about Frances. The exhibition event also saw Sloane Stephens and Madison Keys taking part. Before their face-off, the Spaniard and the American pro exchanged a few words with each other. But nothing was too serious between them.
When asked about his relationship with Tiafoe, Carlos Alcaraz said, “We hate each other”. He had a smile on his face as he reflected on his fun side. So how could Frances stay behind?
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He also decided to be a part of this hilarious banter and replied, “I couldn’t agree more”. On a serious note, though, Alcaraz explained the mutual respect they have shared with each other in recent years. “I think we have a really good relationship of the core. You know when we play on the court, we have huge request to each other. And I think that’s great for tennis and for the competition,” he said. Tiafoe agreed, while taking a jab at the Spaniard.
He said, “Yeah, no, I agree. I mean, I think we’ve had some great battles. Obviously, we get along really well. He copies all the restaurants I go to. I run into him in a restaurant once in a tournament for sure. So that’s obviously pretty funny. But yeah, I mean, it’s been great, and he’s a hell of a player and will continue for a long time.” What are your thoughts on the two facing each other in the ‘Battle of Legends’? Also, who will you cheer for? Let us know in the comments below.
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Carlos Alcaraz vs. Frances Tiafoe: Who's your pick in this epic 'Battle of Legends' showdown?
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