Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recently responded to controversial tennis star Nick Kyrgios’s comments, where Kyrgios suggested Jannik Sinner would have a better career because Alcaraz “likes girls” and might get distracted.
Kyrgios’s Bold Prediction
During a conversation with French tennis coach Patrick Mouratoglou on the Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS), Nick Kyrgios weighed in on the ongoing debate between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Kyrgios didn’t hold back, stating, “I’ll say Sinner, because Alcaraz likes girls. He might get distracted, he might party too much. That’s my only thing, whereas Sinner will stay a bit locked in, I think.”
Mouratoglou largely agreed, noting Sinner’s general consistency compared to Alcaraz, who he feels has more “ups and downs” even during matches. However, Mouratoglou did concede that Alcaraz’s head-to-head record against Sinner, which stands at 8-4 in Alcaraz’s favor, is a strong counterpoint.
The Context Behind the Remarks
Kyrgios’s comments came shortly after Alcaraz’s highly publicized vacation in Ibiza, where he celebrated his French Open win. Additionally, Alcaraz’s documentary, “A mi Manera (My Way),” had just been released, highlighting his unique approach to the sport, including taking extended breaks.
These elements likely fueled Kyrgios’s speculation about Alcaraz’s potential for distraction, contrasting it with Sinner’s perceived focus.
Alcaraz’s Calm Response
When asked about Kyrgios’s remarks at Wimbledon following his third-round victory over Jan-Lennard Struff, Alcaraz simply shrugged them off. The 22-year-old Spaniard seemed unfazed by the Australian’s characteristic bluntness.
“They’re funny comments, which coming from him, don’t surprise me,” Alcaraz told the Spanish media. He acknowledged that Sinner is generally more consistent, but firmly denied any link to his personal life. “It’s no secret that Jannik always has fewer ups and downs than me. It’s something I’ve been working on. It has nothing to do with the nightlife world,” he clarified.
On-Court Challenges at Wimbledon
Alcaraz’s Wimbledon campaign has seen its share of tough moments. After a five-set first-round match against Fabio Fognini, he dropped another set against German Struff. He admitted the match was a “gruelling test.”
“His game is suited to the grass with his big serve, and he came in to the net as much as he can,” Alcaraz said, reflecting on Struff’s performance. “I’m really pleased with everything I fought for but it was stressful. I was suffering in many service games – love 30, break points down. It was tough to survive. I was happy to get that break at the end.”
- Nick Kyrgios suggested Jannik Sinner would have a better career than Carlos Alcaraz due to Alcaraz’s potential for distraction from “girls” and partying.
- Patrick Mouratoglou echoed consistency concerns about Alcaraz but noted his superior head-to-head record against Sinner.
- Alcaraz dismissed Kyrgios’s comments as “funny” and “unsurprising,” stating his consistency issues are not related to his personal life.
- Alcaraz is currently navigating a challenging Wimbledon, facing tough opponents in the early rounds.
The two-time champion is set to continue his Wimbledon journey, facing 14th seed Andrey Rublev in the next round, as the debate around the future of men’s tennis continues.
