Former World No. 1 Andy Roddick shares eye-opening take on Carlos Alcaraz: ‘He needs to be bored’

After winning the ATP 500 title in Rotterdam, Carlos Alcaraz‘s results in 2025 have been underwhelming. This has led some to point out certain inconsistencies in the Spanish star’s game, prompting former World No. 1 Andy Roddick to offer some eye-opening advice.

“When he’s not playing well or not feeling comfortable, he goes more aggressive. That’s hard, and most of the greats throughout history tend to dial it back, find some margin, and then all of a sudden you’re consistent enough where you can take more risks and it’s not irresponsible,” Roddick began on his podcast Served.

“I almost want him to go into a match and say, ‘Okay, for the first six games, I’m literally going to take this person’s legs out, and my ball is heavier than theirs. They’re going to have to hit winners for six games,’” the former American star continued.

However, Andy also speculated that this style might not appeal to Alcaraz. “I don’t think he likes getting winners hit on him. I think he likes to be the one that dictates, and that’s his superpower. And sometimes our superpowers can also be weaknesses when not used in the right moments,” Roddick said. “It’s probably too boring for him. Honestly, I think he needs to be bored sometimes when he’s playing.”

Former American tennis player Andy Roddick on March 31, 2010.

Roddick praises Alcaraz

In the same Served episode, Andy Roddick discussed Carlos Alcaraz’s recent performances. “He loses in the semis at Indian Wells, and people are like, ‘How does that happen?’ Still pretty good,” he said, making it clear that he didn’t think the loss to Jack Draper in the California desert was all that troubling. However, he did acknowledge: “The first-round loss (in Miami) was bad.”

see also

Former World No. 1 and seven-time Grand Slam champion strongly criticizes Carlos Alcaraz

Nonetheless, Roddick showered the young Spanish star with praise. “You won’t find a bigger fan than me, he’s my favorite player to watch,” said the former World No. 1. “His inconsistency sometimes almost makes him relatable. And you can see him kind of churning the wheels of decision-making in real-time.”

What’s next for Alcaraz?

After his early exit from the Miami Open against David Goffin, Carlos Alcaraz had over two weeks of rest before focusing on the Monte-Carlo Masters. He will start his campaign on Tuesday, April 8, in the Round of 32 against the winner of the match between Fabio Fognini and Francisco Cerundolo.