I wasnt happy and planned my escape from Gareth Southgates Middlesbrough. I ignored my clubs calls because I was angry theyd sent me there. I went to Chelsea instead Nemanja Matic on his trial with Boro
Garbine Muguruza has seen greatness up close throughout her career. When thetwo-time Major champion looks at her compatriot, Carlos Alcaraz, she sees something that goes beyond statistics or trophies.
The former winner at Roland Garros and Wimbledon believes tennis is witnessing a rare phenomenon, one that continues to redefine what is possible at such a young age. She also brought Rafael Nadal into the story.
Carlos enjoyed a brilliant run in 2025 and strengthened Garbine's feeling. The 22-year-old earned two Major trophies and became the second-youngest player with six Major titles after Bjorn Borg.
Alcaraz provided 71 ATP wins in the season behind us and lifted eight ATP trophies from 11 finals. He enjoyed a brilliant streak between April and October, defending the ATP throne from Jannik Sinner and securing his second year-end no. 1 honor.
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The El Palmar's blend of explosive power, fearless creativity and constant hunger has separated him from his peers already at such a young age. Thus, it's hard to compare the Spaniard to anyone else on the Tour.
What stands out most is how much he has achieved and how naturally he does it. At 22, Carlos will have an opportunity to chase a Career Grand Slam at the upcoming Australian Open.
If he conquers the only remaining Major missing in his collection, he will pass Rafael Nadal and become the youngest player to achieve the ultimate tennis honor.
Alcaraz's ability to embrace pressure, play with freedom from both wings and attack the game with boldness has become his signature - regardless of the opponent across the net.
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While the expectations are only getting higher, Carlos' energy and joy on the court remain unchanged. Thus, he competes with a smile while overcoming the world's best players.
For Muguruza, his impact goes beyond the tennis court. She sees the young champion as the perfect role model for the upcoming stars, reminding that humility, talent and courage can coexist.
One thing is clear. After Rafael Nadal, Spain has found another ultimate tennis star capable of inspiring generations with his shotmaking, passion and dedication. Like her, the tennis world is watching in awe.
After enjoying his well-deserved rest in Miami, Alcaraz will start his off-season preparation in a few days, with Flavio Cobolli joining him for intense training blocks in sunny Alicante.
"I'm blown away by everything Carlos is achieving. It's very difficult to top what he has done this year. He is very motivated for the Australian Open, which is the only Major he is missing. But what can I say?
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So much talent, so young, so much audacity. How can someone be so good, so young, and so fast? It's a mystery to me, especially with that smile and naturalness he has. Carlos is a unique individual.
Who would have thought that after Rafa Nadal, he would come along? We are all amazed. I'm so happy to have a role model for young players like him, as it could not have been better - he is ideal," Garbine Muguruza said.
