Carlos Alcaraz has called for changes to the tennis calendar, warning that the demanding schedule is contributing to player fatigue and injuries.
The Spanish star said he plans to play fewer tournaments in the future and take regular breaks to protect his fitness.
Alcaraz made the comments after reaching the third round of the US Open with a four-set victory over Portugal’s Jaime Faria.
The reigning US Open champion defeated the world No. 72-ranked Faria 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 in two hours and 40 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Alcaraz Plans Longer Breaks
The seven-time Grand Slam champion recently returned to competitive tennis after missing four months because of a wrist injury.
Although Alcaraz said he never wanted his break to be caused by an injury, he believes planned rest periods could become necessary in the future.
He said he intends to take breaks of one or two months and skip some tournaments because the current schedule is too demanding.
Alcaraz also warned that the problem is affecting players across the sport.
He said more players are experiencing injuries and fatigue as the number of major tournaments continues to increase.
The Spaniard urged tennis authorities to address the issue before the physical demands become even greater.
Alcaraz Recovers After Slow Start
Alcaraz struggled during the opening set against Faria and admitted that he lost patience at a crucial moment.
He had a break-point opportunity that could have given him a 4-2 lead. Instead, Faria held serve to level the set at 3-3.
The Portuguese player then broke Alcaraz’s serve to move 4-3 ahead.
Alcaraz said he began rushing his shots after missing the earlier opportunity and failed to maintain his composure.
Faria eventually took the opening set 6-4, giving the Portuguese player an early advantage.
Seven-Time Grand Slam Champion Takes Control
The match changed dramatically in the second set.
Faria’s serve began to struggle while Alcaraz increased the intensity of his game.
Although Alcaraz had to save two break points in the opening game, he soon took complete control.
The Spaniard broke Faria three times and raced through the set 6-0.
Alcaraz continued his momentum into the third set. He broke Faria early to take a 2-0 lead.
Faria responded by breaking back, but Alcaraz immediately regained the advantage with another break.
He eventually won the third set 6-3 to move within one set of victory.
The fourth set was even more decisive.
Alcaraz secured a double break and moved 5-1 ahead before serving out the match.
The 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 victory sent the defending champion into the third round of the US Open.
However, his comments after the match highlighted a bigger concern for professional tennis.
Alcaraz believes players may need to sacrifice tournaments and take longer breaks if the sport wants to reduce the growing risk of fatigue and injuries.
