Andy Roddick had plenty of praise for Carlos Alcaraz after the Spaniard's latest US Open triumph. The American pointed to the young gun's magnetic charisma and global popularity that has made him one of the most recognized faces of our sport.
The 2003 US Open champion believes Alcaraz already commands the spotlight effortlessly, without needing to push for more recognition. Roddick highlighted the other challenge in front of the 22-year-old.
The American would love to see the Spaniard avoid building fame but manage the final stretch of the season and the year-end no. 1 battle with Jannik Sinner.
Roddick reflected on his experience following the US Open title twenty-two years ago, recalling how draining the weeks after can be.Carlos has not been that successful in the indoor events that wrapped up the previous seasons.
He also still misses the title clash at the ATP Finals, and Andy considers it the key hurdle for the 22-year-old as he looks to close the season on a high note and with his second year-end no. 1 honor.
ADVERTISEMENT
While the next Major event is still months away, the race for ranking points adds extra pressure in the final months of the season. Per Roddick, chasing too much at once can leave a player burnt out before season's close.
He fell into that trap in his best season on the Tour and remembers what it took of him. For Carlos, his latest US Open crown has already strengthened his status as one of tennis' leading stars.
According to Roddick, Alcaraz should now focus on conserving energy and wrap up the season fresh and motivated for another push at the beginning of 2026. The last thing he needs is chasing unnecessary validation off the court, as he already has it!
"I did a lot of PR the day after I won the US Open. On the other hand, Carlos does not need to do anything to be more famous. Everyone loves him. He does not need to train the media narrative, with charisma jumping out of his body.
ADVERTISEMENT
Carlos has not played that well during the indoor season in previous years, especially at the ATP Finals. The next Major is in four months, and you are picking up scraps in the closing stages of the season.
I wanted to secure the year-end no. 1 spot in 2003 and was toast when it finished. I felt like a zombie. That's why the next three months are concerning for Carlos," Andy Roddick said.
