Despite making quite an impression this season, Carlos Alcaraz isn’t doing so well at the ATP Finals. Currently positioned third in the world rankings, the Spaniard faced a tough start in Turin, losing to Casper Ruud 6-1, 7-5. However, this setback doesn’t overshadow Alcaraz’s achievements this year, where he clinched four titles, including Grand Slam victories at Wimbledon and Roland Garros. He seems all set to make it far by the end of it all. However, he is still lacking something which has caught the eye of a former tennis pro.

On November 12, Julien Varlet shared his thoughts on Alcaraz’s performance with the French publication Lequipe, noting that the young star seemed uncomfortable on the court of Inalpi Arena. This is a sentiment echoed by Alcaraz himself before the tournament. as he said that he has little experience on indoor courts. Varlet remarked, “On this surface, he does not have the right tactics,” emphasizing that Alcaraz’s style, which thrives on hard and clay courts, struggles indoors.

He elaborated that Alcaraz’s game is less mechanical compared to other players. “He plays point by point. It is a bit messy, there is waste, but that is what makes his game charming,” Varlet said. This creativity shines on grass courts, where Alcaraz has won against top competitors like Novak Djokovic twice at Wimbledon consecutively for two years.

He first won the title in 2023 and again this year, triumphing over Djokovic with a score of 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (4) in just two hours and 28 minutes. Alcaraz also excels on clay and various hard surfaces, as seen in his performances at Roland Garros, the China Open, and the Indian Wells Masters. Varlet noted, “There, he can feel the ball, feel the surface.” However, it doesn’t translate well indoors.

Varlet explained that indoor play often involves repetitive shots, “That is the domain of hitters. Alcaraz is not robotic enough to flourish indoors,” he added. In his match against Ruud, according to Varlet, Alcaraz sometimes appeared lost. Varlet pointed out that even his signature drop shots, which have finesse, and precision and have helped Alcaraz secure many titles were just “not up to par.” when going up against Ruud who “did not attack him that much, except in return.”

Currently, things look challenging for Alcaraz. He last won against Jannik Sinner at the China Open but faced defeat against Sinner again in the Six Kings Slams shortly after. His recent performances include a quarterfinal loss at the Shanghai Masters and an early exit against Ugo Humbert at the Paris Masters. Compounding his struggles, Alcaraz has been dealing with health issues, citing stomach problems before his match with Ruud. Additionally, he revealed a new strategy that he uses on the court at the post-match press conference.

Carlos gets candid about his tactics and health concerns ahead of ATP Finals

Carlos Alcaraz is embracing spontaneity as he navigates the challenges of indoor tennis. When the press asked about a new technique he seemed to be experimenting with, Alcaraz acknowledged the need for adaptation on faster surfaces. “I’m a player who makes changes without working on,” he admitted, revealing that he hadn’t discussed these adjustments with his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero. Instead, he found himself trying things out instinctively, saying, “I just started to feel comfortable doing it or without thinking I just did it a little bit different.”

This free-spirited approach has paid off in the past. Alcaraz showcased his creativity at the China Open, defeating World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in a thrilling match. He reflected on this success, noting, “I started to do it a little bit different” during the Asian Swing and Davis Cup. However, his unpredictable style can also lead to inconsistencies. After his loss to Casper Ruud, he remarked, “Sometimes it’s good, sometimes it’s bad,” expressing uncertainty about whether he would continue practicing these changes.

As he prepares for his next match against Andrey Rublev, concerns about Alcaraz’s fitness loom large. Coach Juan Carlos Ferrero revealed that Alcaraz has been struggling with breathing issues due to tightness in his chest. “As soon as he moves a little, it’s hard for him to breathe. It’s a bad time to get sick,” Ferrero noted. He added that while Alcaraz should be able to play, it will be difficult for him to be at 100%.

With Rublev being a highly mobile player, recovering between points will be crucial for Alcaraz. Do you think he can turn things around in the next match? Share your thoughts in the comments below!