With Rafael Nadal stepping away from professional tennis, Carlos Alcaraz has become the face of Spanish tennis. Despite his undeniable talent, the 21-year-old phenom has faced heavy scrutiny in 2025. For Novak Djokovic, the backlash is unwarranted.
Alcaraz began the year with promise at the Australian Open but was stopped in the quarterfinals by an injured Djokovic. He rebounded to claim the ATP 500 title in Rotterdam, only to falter in subsequent tournaments.
After disappointing exits in Doha and Indian Wells, Alcaraz hit a new low with a shocking first-round loss to David Goffin at the Miami Open. However, his form improved at the Monte Carlo Masters, where he claimed the title by defeating Lorenzo Musetti, followed by a run to the finals in the Barcelona Open.
A loss to Holger Rune in Barcelona, coupled with dropping to World No.3 in the rankings, reignited criticism of Alcaraz. At the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards Gala, Djokovic delivered a strong defense of the young Spaniard.
Carlos Alcaraz poses at the Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2025 at Galería de Cristal. (Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)
“No, I don’t understand it,” Djokovic said when asked about the criticism of Alcaraz. “But the tennis tradition and atmosphere in this country are enormous. The expectations are sky-high after Nadal, Moyá, Ferrero—all of whom were World No.1”.
Djokovic then lauded Alcaraz’s accomplishments at such a young age. “But listen, he’s 21 years old, he’s won four Grand Slams and numerous tournaments. What more do you want?” Djokovic remarked. “You want more, but what he’s done in this period is incredible”.
Alcaraz’s message to his critics
While Alcaraz acknowledged that some of his early-season results didn’t meet expectations, he stressed that every loss has been a stepping stone for growth, regardless of external opinions.
“The level of demand is high, although I recognize that there have been some results that, for some people—even for myself—have not been as expected. We’re four months into the year, and I’ve learned many things. Now, I give importance to what truly matters,” he said during an interview with MARCA.
“There have been certain defeats that may have felt insufficient to many, but for me, there is no defeat that feels insufficient anymore; they are all learning experiences,” Alcaraz added.
To those who have criticized his performances, Alcaraz offered a firm response. “So, I need to move forward. Talking is easy and free, particularly when someone has expectations and doesn’t fulfill them—that’s all I can say,” the young star concluded.
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