Talk about a curveball! Carlos Alcaraz faced a knee scare and an early morning start at the US Open, admitting he’s ‘not a morning person.’ Yet, the champ powered through with incredible grit! What does it take to stay so focused under pressure?
Carlos Alcaraz, the Spanish tennis sensation, showcased remarkable resilience and mental fortitude at the 2025 US Open, brushing aside a mid-match knee scare to advance to the fourth round. What began as a seemingly routine encounter against Luciano Darderi quickly turned into a test of his championship mettle, highlighting his ability to conquer both opponents and unexpected physical challenges on the grandest stage, further solidifying his presence on the ATP Tour.
The incident occurred during a commanding second set, with Alcaraz comfortably leading by a set and 4-1. After losing serve for the first time all week, the defending champion appeared to land awkwardly following a serve, immediately signaling discomfort in his right knee. This sudden hiccup, often referred to as a knee injury scare, sent a jolt through the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd, momentarily raising concerns about his US Open campaign.
Despite the visible discomfort and the initial worry, Carlos Alcaraz responded with the poise and determination characteristic of a true world-class athlete. He quickly assessed the situation, received necessary attention, and, with steely resolve, continued the match, refusing to let the momentary setback derail his focus or performance. His ability to compartmentalize and push through adversity was truly a masterclass in professional tennis.
Adding another layer to his Friday challenge was the early morning start time, a stark contrast to his preferred night sessions. Alcaraz, with a characteristic grin, openly admitted, “I’m not a morning person.” This self-deprecating humor resonated with many, underscoring the additional hurdle he had to overcome, yet he proved that champions can adapt and thrive regardless of the schedule.
Indeed, his performance after the scare was anything but sluggish. Alcaraz was ruthless across all departments, particularly excelling in the high-octane forehand-to-forehand exchanges that had the capacity crowd on its feet. He demonstrated a comprehensive game, combining powerful groundstrokes with agile movement, leaving his opponent with few answers as the match progressed, showcasing why he is a force on the ATP Tour.
With an impressive Tour-leading 57 wins and six titles already under his belt in 2025, Alcaraz is not merely playing for another tournament victory; he is making a profound statement about his dominance. This latest triumph sets up a compelling fourth-round clash against another formidable opponent, keeping his pursuit of the coveted World No. 1 Ranking firmly on track. The stakes are incredibly high, as he could reclaim the top spot for the first time since September 2023 if he can match or better Sinner’s results in New York.
Ultimately, Friday’s match was more than just a win; it was a profound demonstration of mental fortitude and unwavering resolve. Faced with both a potential knee injury scare and an inconvenient early start, Carlos Alcaraz not only survived these challenges but thrived, solidifying his status as a formidable contender for the US Open title and a beacon of resilience in the world of tennis.
