Tennis: “These last two months I wasn't myself, I wasn't happy”, Alcaraz smiles again by winning Indian Wells

Carlos Alcaraz rediscovers the taste of victory. EPA – JOHN G. MABANGLO

Winner of Daniil Medvedev at Indian Wells, the Spaniard chased away his spleen at the start of the year.  

Prey to doubt before the tournament, the Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz dominated in the final like last year the Russian Daniil Medvedev (7-6, 6-1) to win the Masters 1000 in Indian Wells (California, United States) on Sunday.

The 20-year-old Spaniard, world No.2 who reached the top of the bill so young, chased away the first small period of doubt in his career in the Californian desert.

What lesson do you learn from this tournament ?

That we can overcome all our problems, whatever they may be. If you believe in yourself, are well surrounded, and work hard, you can overcome anything.

You haven't won a trophy since Wimbledon 2023. Is that what makes you particularly happy ?

It's difficult to have the right words, because I've really had a difficult few months. Let's say that these last two months I've had a hard time finding myself. I wasn't happy, let's say, coming onto the field. Those around me told me that I smiled less than usual.

I wasn't myself these last two, three months, it was difficult for me. So winning this tournament was very important for me, because I overcame mental and physical problems. That's why it was important, not because I hadn't won a tournament since Wimbledon.

I don't care if I win a competition or not, what matters to me is how I feel, if I have fun play tennis. I found myself during this tournament, that's why I'm happy to win this trophy.

In each match you achieve improbable points, magical shots, is this the expression of your creativity ?

I'm looking for these kinds of points, it gives me extra motivation. That's why I try to find incredible shots, incredible points. It's also good for tennis to have this kind of matches, points. I'm trying to bring people to tennis who don't usually watch.

I always say that I play better with a smile on my face, and these kinds of points, no matter if I lose it or if I win it, it makes me smile. It helps me improve and develop my best tennis. I don't know if it's anticipation, speed, or a mixture of the two.