Alcaraz Expresses Concern Over Grueling Tennis Schedule, Warns It Could “Kill” Players

Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion, has voiced concerns over the relentless tennis calendar, warning that the demanding schedule could take a severe toll on players’ health. At just 21, Alcaraz has already participated in 14 tournaments in 2024, playing 50 singles matches, while also securing a silver medal at the Paris Olympics.

Alcaraz’s comments came after his win against Ben Shelton at the Laver Cup, where he expressed frustration over the tight schedule. “The calendar is so packed, and it’s leading to an increase in injuries,” he said, pointing out that numerous top players are being forced to miss events due to physical strain.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Alcaraz admitted that the hectic pace sometimes left him unmotivated. He noted that his unexpected exit from the U.S. Open may have been due to insufficient rest following the Olympics. “I thought the break after the Olympics was enough, but it probably wasn’t,” he said.

Alcaraz also touched on the possibility of a long-term rivalry with Jannik Sinner, hoping it could mirror the dominance of tennis legends like Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer. The duo has already made history in 2024, with each winning two Grand Slams in a season where none of the “Big Three” captured a major title. Alcaraz looks forward to continuing to push himself alongside Sinner in the future.