Rafael Nadal is nearing a tennis comeback, and his compatriot Alex Corretja urged him to find some joy in the process.
Rafael Nadal is returning to tennis in a few days at the Brisbane International, which will be interesting. Nobody knows whether it will be miserable or enjoyable for the Spaniard, but fans should be glad to see him back on the courts regardless.
The Spaniard himself missed competing, so in a sense, it will be a relief to come back, and it must be. The process will be tough, which is why former Atp player Alex Corretja urged him to find some joy as he searches for his best tennis.
Winning wouldn't be a bad start as he's one win away from being the four most winning tennis player in the Open Era. We'll see what happens but Corretja commented to Eurosport that just thinking about Nadal returning is wonderful enough.
Rafael Nadal is returning to tennis in a few days at the Brisbane International, which will be interesting. Nobody knows whether it will be miserable or enjoyable for the Spaniard, but fans should be glad to see him back on the courts regardless.
The Spaniard himself missed competing, so in a sense, it will be a relief to come back, and it must be. The process will be tough, which is why former Atp player Alex Corretja urged him to find some joy as he searches for his best tennis.
Winning wouldn't be a bad start as he's one win away from being the four most winning tennis player in the Open Era. We'll see what happens but Corretja commented to Eurosport that just thinking about Nadal returning is wonderful enough.
- 12/29/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Iga Swiatek won only one Grand Slam in 2023, but she'll win at least one in 2024, according to former pro Alex Corretja.
Corretja was a pretty good tennis player during his peak, making the Roland Garros final, among other things. He never won the event, unlike Iga Swiatek, who has three trophies from the French capital.
The most recent one came earlier this year as she bested Karolina Muchova in a match where she was down a break in the final set. According to the Polish player, who faced strong opposition from all sides this year, it was the hardest to win.
It wasn't a bad year for her despite winning only one Grand Slam, as she still finished as number one in the world after a title-winning run at the Wta Finals. Despite the opposition catching up on Swiatek, Corretja still feels she's the player to beat, per a recent interview with Eurosport.
Corretja was a pretty good tennis player during his peak, making the Roland Garros final, among other things. He never won the event, unlike Iga Swiatek, who has three trophies from the French capital.
The most recent one came earlier this year as she bested Karolina Muchova in a match where she was down a break in the final set. According to the Polish player, who faced strong opposition from all sides this year, it was the hardest to win.
It wasn't a bad year for her despite winning only one Grand Slam, as she still finished as number one in the world after a title-winning run at the Wta Finals. Despite the opposition catching up on Swiatek, Corretja still feels she's the player to beat, per a recent interview with Eurosport.
- 12/28/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Carlos Alcaraz is an excellent tennis player on all surfaces, which makes his compatriot and former Atp player Alex Corretja believe he's going to win everything you can win in tennis.
Alcaraz has already proven exceptional on all surfaces, winning trophies on all surfaces. His maiden Grand Slam trophy came on a pretty fast hard court, which serves his aggressive style of play.
He also added the Wimbledon title earlier this year, which was particularly impressive as he beat Novak Djokovic on the surface.
The Serbian is arguably one of the best players ever on the surface and hadn't lost on the main court of Wimbledon for a decade before that loss. He's also won multiple trophies on clay and performed reasonably well indoors.
That basically tells you that he's already great on all surfaces, and eventually, he's going to win all you can win in tennis. That's according to Alex Corretja,...
Alcaraz has already proven exceptional on all surfaces, winning trophies on all surfaces. His maiden Grand Slam trophy came on a pretty fast hard court, which serves his aggressive style of play.
He also added the Wimbledon title earlier this year, which was particularly impressive as he beat Novak Djokovic on the surface.
The Serbian is arguably one of the best players ever on the surface and hadn't lost on the main court of Wimbledon for a decade before that loss. He's also won multiple trophies on clay and performed reasonably well indoors.
That basically tells you that he's already great on all surfaces, and eventually, he's going to win all you can win in tennis. That's according to Alex Corretja,...
- 12/21/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Jannik Sinner broke out as a player a few years ago, but it wasn't until this year that he truly made the step to become one of the best players in the world.
His progress was less meteoric than the ones of Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune and more slow. Neither way is better than the other because while a sudden rise is great, things taking time allowed Sinner to mature both physically and mentally.
When he finally made the step, there was no fear and no doubt and he kept rolling. Much of that came in the second part of the year, where he won multiple trophies, including his maiden Atp 1000 trophy as well as a few others.
A win over Djokovic at the Atp Finals was another major win, even though he would lose against the same player in the final of that event a few days later.
His progress was less meteoric than the ones of Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune and more slow. Neither way is better than the other because while a sudden rise is great, things taking time allowed Sinner to mature both physically and mentally.
When he finally made the step, there was no fear and no doubt and he kept rolling. Much of that came in the second part of the year, where he won multiple trophies, including his maiden Atp 1000 trophy as well as a few others.
A win over Djokovic at the Atp Finals was another major win, even though he would lose against the same player in the final of that event a few days later.
- 12/21/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Carlos Alcaraz had high hopes for the 2023 Roland Garros but was disappointed greatly in a match that he could have won.
The Roland Garros showdown with Novak Djokovic was one many expected the Spaniard to win. There are multiple reasons why Alcaraz might have been favoured against the Serbian, but ultimately he failed.
He didn't fail with his tennis, even though he didn't play the best match but more so couldn't really handle the moment. The brutal conditions and nerves caused him to cramp badly and that was basically the end of it.
After the match, even Djokovic recognized that Alcaraz succumbed to the pressure of being the favorite, which was a big lesson for him. It was a winnable match as the score was 1-1 in sets when the cramps started. Redemption will be possible in 2024 and two-fold because we'll see him in Paris twice.
The first time, we'll...
The Roland Garros showdown with Novak Djokovic was one many expected the Spaniard to win. There are multiple reasons why Alcaraz might have been favoured against the Serbian, but ultimately he failed.
He didn't fail with his tennis, even though he didn't play the best match but more so couldn't really handle the moment. The brutal conditions and nerves caused him to cramp badly and that was basically the end of it.
After the match, even Djokovic recognized that Alcaraz succumbed to the pressure of being the favorite, which was a big lesson for him. It was a winnable match as the score was 1-1 in sets when the cramps started. Redemption will be possible in 2024 and two-fold because we'll see him in Paris twice.
The first time, we'll...
- 12/21/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Holger Rune has been widely described as a confident player on the court because there is a lot of fearlessness in him.
There are various ways you can show respect on a tennis court. Some argue that giving your best against your opponent is a great way of showing respect despite a 6-0 6-0 scoreline looking very disrespectful.
Some argue that showing a certain dose of fear against a legendary player demonstrates your respect for him. In the case of Holger Rune, his respect mostly comes out through words.
When he's on the court, the Dane doesn't want to show any unnecessary respect, showing his confidence. That's gotten him in some trouble with fans in the past who perceived him to be quite cocky.
He dismissed those claims simply stating that he's very passionate about the court, which, to be fair, is true. Eurosport's Alex Corretja says his public...
There are various ways you can show respect on a tennis court. Some argue that giving your best against your opponent is a great way of showing respect despite a 6-0 6-0 scoreline looking very disrespectful.
Some argue that showing a certain dose of fear against a legendary player demonstrates your respect for him. In the case of Holger Rune, his respect mostly comes out through words.
When he's on the court, the Dane doesn't want to show any unnecessary respect, showing his confidence. That's gotten him in some trouble with fans in the past who perceived him to be quite cocky.
He dismissed those claims simply stating that he's very passionate about the court, which, to be fair, is true. Eurosport's Alex Corretja says his public...
- 12/20/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic is the main favorite for the upcoming 2024 Australian Open, but it won't be easy, as we saw recently.
Djokovic finished the 2023 season as world number one on the Atp Tour and it was quite deserved. He didn't play as much as some other players yet he won some of the biggest trophies.
Winning three of the four Grand Slams obviously comes before all others, but sustaining that in 2024 will be hard. We've seen quite a few players step-up in recent months, most notably Jannik Sinner, who bested Novak Djokovic twice in the span of weeks.
That was a pretty clear wake-up call to Djokovic, according to Alex Corretja, who talked about the upcoming 2024 season with Eurosport.
I'm sure that he's going to keep on winning Slams, but it's going to be tougher and tougher and he knows that. And in a way, I feel the match that he...
Djokovic finished the 2023 season as world number one on the Atp Tour and it was quite deserved. He didn't play as much as some other players yet he won some of the biggest trophies.
Winning three of the four Grand Slams obviously comes before all others, but sustaining that in 2024 will be hard. We've seen quite a few players step-up in recent months, most notably Jannik Sinner, who bested Novak Djokovic twice in the span of weeks.
That was a pretty clear wake-up call to Djokovic, according to Alex Corretja, who talked about the upcoming 2024 season with Eurosport.
I'm sure that he's going to keep on winning Slams, but it's going to be tougher and tougher and he knows that. And in a way, I feel the match that he...
- 12/20/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Carlos Alcaraz has been warned of obsessing about the fight for world number one with Novak Djokovic ahead of the new season.
The last part of the 2023 season heavily featured the battle for world number one on the Atp Tour between the Spanish prodigy and Serbian legend. The Spanish sensation was in a great position to dethrone Djokovic and finish as the best player in the world for the second year in a row, but ultimately, it didn't happen.
Bad play and injuries contributed to that but there was a fair amount of pressure as well. Alcaraz has had an interesting experience with pressure coming out on top most times but flaming out a few times as well.
He was seemingly quite obsessed with overcoming Djokovic, and that's kind of the problem. It's not the type of distraction he really needs in life, which is why his compatriot and former...
The last part of the 2023 season heavily featured the battle for world number one on the Atp Tour between the Spanish prodigy and Serbian legend. The Spanish sensation was in a great position to dethrone Djokovic and finish as the best player in the world for the second year in a row, but ultimately, it didn't happen.
Bad play and injuries contributed to that but there was a fair amount of pressure as well. Alcaraz has had an interesting experience with pressure coming out on top most times but flaming out a few times as well.
He was seemingly quite obsessed with overcoming Djokovic, and that's kind of the problem. It's not the type of distraction he really needs in life, which is why his compatriot and former...
- 12/20/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic has some big plans, like the Golden Calendar Slam in 2024, but the former world number 2 on the Atp Tour, Alex Corretja, doesn't see it.
The Golden Calendar Slam is probably the most impressive thing you can do in a tennis season, as it literally means winning everything important. Steffi Graff did it in the past by winning all four Grand Slams that year, including the Gold Medal at the Olympics, which tells you why it's so difficult.
Not only do you need to win all four Grand Slams, which rarely happens, but you also need to win the Gold Medal at the Olympic Games, and that's hardly an easy feat either.
Djokovic thinks he can do it in 2024, and it's a goal for him, but he understands that it's going to be pretty tough. Still, some things should give him confidence.
He was on the cusp of winning...
The Golden Calendar Slam is probably the most impressive thing you can do in a tennis season, as it literally means winning everything important. Steffi Graff did it in the past by winning all four Grand Slams that year, including the Gold Medal at the Olympics, which tells you why it's so difficult.
Not only do you need to win all four Grand Slams, which rarely happens, but you also need to win the Gold Medal at the Olympic Games, and that's hardly an easy feat either.
Djokovic thinks he can do it in 2024, and it's a goal for him, but he understands that it's going to be pretty tough. Still, some things should give him confidence.
He was on the cusp of winning...
- 12/20/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Carlos Alcaraz was named the winner of the 2023 Atp Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award and created a history.
Alcaraz, 20, is the youngest recipient of this prestigious award, which rewards fair play, high professionalism, and integrity on and off the court. This unique award was voted by the players from a shortlist that the Atp nominated.
Alcaraz beat the likes of Grigor Dimitrov, Hubert Hurkacz, and Jannik Sinner to the award and is only the fourth Spaniard to have his name etched on the roll of honor, following the footsteps of Jose Higueras, Alex Corretja (twice) and five-time winner Rafael Nadal.
In a career of firsts, Alcaraz has achieved some milestone wins at his age. He is already the first man born after 1990 to win multiple Grand Slams. And this latest award comes a year after becoming the youngest-ever Atp year-end No. 1.
For all of Roger Federer's exemplary sportsmanship and charisma,...
Alcaraz, 20, is the youngest recipient of this prestigious award, which rewards fair play, high professionalism, and integrity on and off the court. This unique award was voted by the players from a shortlist that the Atp nominated.
Alcaraz beat the likes of Grigor Dimitrov, Hubert Hurkacz, and Jannik Sinner to the award and is only the fourth Spaniard to have his name etched on the roll of honor, following the footsteps of Jose Higueras, Alex Corretja (twice) and five-time winner Rafael Nadal.
In a career of firsts, Alcaraz has achieved some milestone wins at his age. He is already the first man born after 1990 to win multiple Grand Slams. And this latest award comes a year after becoming the youngest-ever Atp year-end No. 1.
For all of Roger Federer's exemplary sportsmanship and charisma,...
- 12/17/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Carlos Alcaraz was honored during the Atp Awards Week after being selected as this year's winner of the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award.
The award is named after former Atp World No. 1 and winner of six Grand Slam singles titles, Stefan Edberg, known for his professionalism and exemplary conduct on and off the court. It has been in existence since 1977 and is voted by the players.
Therefore, this annual award is given to the player who exemplifies the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play, carries himself with professionalism and integrity on the court, and promotes the sport through his off-court activities.
Carlos Alcaraz, one of the classiest players on tour, who plays with a beaming smile, ticked all these boxes. Alcaraz beat Grigor Dimitrov, Hubert Hurkacz, and direct rival Jannik Sinner in a four-man shortlist determined by the International Tennis Writers' Association (Itwa).
The players themselves decided the overall vote for the winner,...
The award is named after former Atp World No. 1 and winner of six Grand Slam singles titles, Stefan Edberg, known for his professionalism and exemplary conduct on and off the court. It has been in existence since 1977 and is voted by the players.
Therefore, this annual award is given to the player who exemplifies the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play, carries himself with professionalism and integrity on the court, and promotes the sport through his off-court activities.
Carlos Alcaraz, one of the classiest players on tour, who plays with a beaming smile, ticked all these boxes. Alcaraz beat Grigor Dimitrov, Hubert Hurkacz, and direct rival Jannik Sinner in a four-man shortlist determined by the International Tennis Writers' Association (Itwa).
The players themselves decided the overall vote for the winner,...
- 12/16/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Ahead of Carlos Alcaraz's Atp Finals debut, Alex Corretja showered his countryman with praise calling him "the most explosive guy on tour" due to his unmatched power game.
Alcaraz's campaign in Turin started on the wrong foot, losing to two-time champion Alexander Zverev in three sets. The defeat extends Alcaraz's worst spell of results this season and Corretja was equally honest in his assessment of Alcaraz's low point this season.
The 49-year-old believes Alcaraz was physically drained and "mentally fell apart" after the 2023 US Open in which his title defense came to a halt in the semifinal against Daniil Medvedev. Since then, he has lost a semifinal in Beijing, the round of 16 in Shanghai, and the second round in Paris-Bercy.
Monday's collapse to Zverev was his third loss on the trot which gives Corretja's view of Alcaraz's slump more water. Nevertheless, it has been a season above and beyond anyone's expectation,...
Alcaraz's campaign in Turin started on the wrong foot, losing to two-time champion Alexander Zverev in three sets. The defeat extends Alcaraz's worst spell of results this season and Corretja was equally honest in his assessment of Alcaraz's low point this season.
The 49-year-old believes Alcaraz was physically drained and "mentally fell apart" after the 2023 US Open in which his title defense came to a halt in the semifinal against Daniil Medvedev. Since then, he has lost a semifinal in Beijing, the round of 16 in Shanghai, and the second round in Paris-Bercy.
Monday's collapse to Zverev was his third loss on the trot which gives Corretja's view of Alcaraz's slump more water. Nevertheless, it has been a season above and beyond anyone's expectation,...
- 11/13/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
The 2022 Australian Open saga woke up the 'beast' in Novak Djokovic, according to former Atp player and analyst Alex Corretja.
There might be some truth to that because Djokovic was a man on a mission when he returned to the Tour after that. The vaccination thing also contributed to him being laser-focused when he did play because he missed so many events due to his unvaccinated status.
Picture how many more trophies or Grand Slams he would have had if all of those things didn't happen to him. It defined his career in recent years, at least according to former player Alex Corretja.
He spoke to Eurosport about its impact on Djokovic because the Serbian himself talked about the experience a few times.
I think what happened to him in Australia led him to a long introspection. He dove within himself and understood who he was. And he just got deep inside his soul,...
There might be some truth to that because Djokovic was a man on a mission when he returned to the Tour after that. The vaccination thing also contributed to him being laser-focused when he did play because he missed so many events due to his unvaccinated status.
Picture how many more trophies or Grand Slams he would have had if all of those things didn't happen to him. It defined his career in recent years, at least according to former player Alex Corretja.
He spoke to Eurosport about its impact on Djokovic because the Serbian himself talked about the experience a few times.
I think what happened to him in Australia led him to a long introspection. He dove within himself and understood who he was. And he just got deep inside his soul,...
- 11/12/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic drew Holger Rune in the opening match of the 2023 Atp Finals in Turin, and Eurosport tennis analyst Alex Corretja thinks it's a pretty tough challenge.
Corretja knows tennis, which isn't surprising as he's a former Atp player, and he's correct. Holger Rune is about the toughest possible opponent Djokovic could have faced in the opening round of the Atp Finals. Several factors contribute to that, but it's mostly the matchup that can be tricky for the 36-year-old.
Rune bested him indoors and on clay in the past, showcasing that he knows how to play him. Their recent clash in Paris was won by Djokovic, but even that match went to three sets, further confirming the complicated nature of the matchup.
In an interview with Eurosport, Corretja broke down what he expects to see in that first match from both players.
I think it's the toughest draw that Novak...
Corretja knows tennis, which isn't surprising as he's a former Atp player, and he's correct. Holger Rune is about the toughest possible opponent Djokovic could have faced in the opening round of the Atp Finals. Several factors contribute to that, but it's mostly the matchup that can be tricky for the 36-year-old.
Rune bested him indoors and on clay in the past, showcasing that he knows how to play him. Their recent clash in Paris was won by Djokovic, but even that match went to three sets, further confirming the complicated nature of the matchup.
In an interview with Eurosport, Corretja broke down what he expects to see in that first match from both players.
I think it's the toughest draw that Novak...
- 11/12/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic began his quest for a record-extending seventh Paris Masters title with a comfortable straight-sets win over Tomas Martin Etcheverry.
Djokovic already owns eight mammoth records at the Paris Masters , which includes the most titles of any player and the most match wins. He extended his win-loss record at the indoor hardcourt event to 46-9, after completing an hour and 23-minute mastery of Etcheverry .
The World No. 2 achieved another significant milestone in that win. Having been tied with Rafael Nadal, he was able to surpass the Spaniard and play in his 1,289th match on the Atp Tour - the fourth-most in the Open Era.
Djokovic is a solid bet to pass Ivan Lendl who is third on the list in the early weeks of next season but is likely to fall short of conquering Roger Federer and table-topping Jimmy Connors, given his limited schedule these days.
Djokovic will be...
Djokovic already owns eight mammoth records at the Paris Masters , which includes the most titles of any player and the most match wins. He extended his win-loss record at the indoor hardcourt event to 46-9, after completing an hour and 23-minute mastery of Etcheverry .
The World No. 2 achieved another significant milestone in that win. Having been tied with Rafael Nadal, he was able to surpass the Spaniard and play in his 1,289th match on the Atp Tour - the fourth-most in the Open Era.
Djokovic is a solid bet to pass Ivan Lendl who is third on the list in the early weeks of next season but is likely to fall short of conquering Roger Federer and table-topping Jimmy Connors, given his limited schedule these days.
Djokovic will be...
- 11/2/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Since Novak Djokovic became World No. 1 for the first time 12 years ago, he has rendered almost every tennis record irrelevant in that timespan and potentially in the unforeseeable future.
Djokovic has reduced the accomplishments from some of the most illustrious names to have ever picked up a racket to just a mere stat sheet. This week, he kicks off a mind-boggling 397th week as the Atp 's No. 1. Djokovic has now reigned at the top of the men's rankings as many times as 18 former Atp No. 1s.
The list features retired greats like Stefan Edberg, Carlos Moya, Jim Courier, Gustavo Kuerten, Boris Becker, and Andy Roddick to the current roster of active players that includes Andy Murray, Daniil Medvedev and even Carlos Alcaraz.
What makes Djokovic's current reign even more special and unique is how he's been able to grasp and improve the technicalities of his game, learn to adapt...
Djokovic has reduced the accomplishments from some of the most illustrious names to have ever picked up a racket to just a mere stat sheet. This week, he kicks off a mind-boggling 397th week as the Atp 's No. 1. Djokovic has now reigned at the top of the men's rankings as many times as 18 former Atp No. 1s.
The list features retired greats like Stefan Edberg, Carlos Moya, Jim Courier, Gustavo Kuerten, Boris Becker, and Andy Roddick to the current roster of active players that includes Andy Murray, Daniil Medvedev and even Carlos Alcaraz.
What makes Djokovic's current reign even more special and unique is how he's been able to grasp and improve the technicalities of his game, learn to adapt...
- 10/30/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Rafael Nadal is reportedly set to come back to tennis next year; however, Alex Corretja is unsure whether it will be for the 2024 Australian Open .
It's widely accepted that Rafael Nadal will make his long-awaited comeback at the 2024 Australian Open. His uncle Toni said it a while ago, and after Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley kind of confirmed it , anything but that would be a huge surprise to many people.
Yet, former Atp player and current analyst Alex Corretja isn't sure that is going to happen. Nadal himself kind of expressed doubt on it on social media in response to Tiley's comments; the Spaniard might have a point.
In his recent talk with Eurosport , Corretja explained that only Nadal probably knows when he's going to come back, and only he will officially announce it.
After taking a while from not playing tennis, I was thinking that Rafa will be...
It's widely accepted that Rafael Nadal will make his long-awaited comeback at the 2024 Australian Open. His uncle Toni said it a while ago, and after Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley kind of confirmed it , anything but that would be a huge surprise to many people.
Yet, former Atp player and current analyst Alex Corretja isn't sure that is going to happen. Nadal himself kind of expressed doubt on it on social media in response to Tiley's comments; the Spaniard might have a point.
In his recent talk with Eurosport , Corretja explained that only Nadal probably knows when he's going to come back, and only he will officially announce it.
After taking a while from not playing tennis, I was thinking that Rafa will be...
- 10/19/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic was pretty much unbeatable indoors last year, and former player and tennis analyst Alex Corretja thinks this year will be no different.
Djokovic has been pretty unbeatable since returning from the summer break, going undefeated in all his matches. He's on an active 13-match winning streak over three events, including the Cincinnati Masters and US Open, both of which he won .
He was dominant last year indoors, losing only one match in the 19 competitive matches he played. The only loss came against Holger Rune in the Paris Masters final, while he won Astana, Tel Aviv and the Atp Finals, where he went undefeated.
That's a scary thought for all of his opponents, as tennis analyst Alex Corretja doesn't see it changing one bit. Speaking to Eurosport , Corretja alluded to Djokovic being by far the biggest favourite for the final two events of his season.
I think he should...
Djokovic has been pretty unbeatable since returning from the summer break, going undefeated in all his matches. He's on an active 13-match winning streak over three events, including the Cincinnati Masters and US Open, both of which he won .
He was dominant last year indoors, losing only one match in the 19 competitive matches he played. The only loss came against Holger Rune in the Paris Masters final, while he won Astana, Tel Aviv and the Atp Finals, where he went undefeated.
That's a scary thought for all of his opponents, as tennis analyst Alex Corretja doesn't see it changing one bit. Speaking to Eurosport , Corretja alluded to Djokovic being by far the biggest favourite for the final two events of his season.
I think he should...
- 10/17/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Aryna Sabalenka didn't have the best of time in Asia, and it's somewhat expected as most players hit a bit of a wall after becoming world number one.
It's by no means a rule, but there is something about achieving your long-time dream that has a deeply emotional impact on you. It can be rewarding, it can also be draining, but most players find their footing relatively quickly.
Sabalenka played her first event as w orld number one in China and did okay. She didn't play spectacular tennis, but she played well enough to remind everybody why she became world number one. The lack of results isn't worrying to former player Alex Corretja, who spoke about Sabalenka to Eurosport .
I think you spend so much time thinking and dreaming and practicing and working to become No. 1 that probably once you achieve that, it's normal to have a little bit of a down,...
It's by no means a rule, but there is something about achieving your long-time dream that has a deeply emotional impact on you. It can be rewarding, it can also be draining, but most players find their footing relatively quickly.
Sabalenka played her first event as w orld number one in China and did okay. She didn't play spectacular tennis, but she played well enough to remind everybody why she became world number one. The lack of results isn't worrying to former player Alex Corretja, who spoke about Sabalenka to Eurosport .
I think you spend so much time thinking and dreaming and practicing and working to become No. 1 that probably once you achieve that, it's normal to have a little bit of a down,...
- 10/17/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic last played at the Davis Cup Finals in Valencia, opting to skip the Asian swing, and Alex Corretja praised his mastery of the calendar.
Novak Djokovic started to manage his calendar fairly early in his career, opting to focus on those events he seemed to be of a bigger priority. The most important events were always the Grand Slams for him, and everything he did was towards the goal of winning them.
He won a lot of them in recent years, which demonstrates how well he's been scheduling his events lately, especially as he got up there in age. Former player Alex Corretja spoke to Eurosport about Djokovic, calling him the master of the calendar.
I think Djokovic is the master of the calendar because he knows exactly what he needs to do in every moment. But in order to do that, you need to know your body,...
Novak Djokovic started to manage his calendar fairly early in his career, opting to focus on those events he seemed to be of a bigger priority. The most important events were always the Grand Slams for him, and everything he did was towards the goal of winning them.
He won a lot of them in recent years, which demonstrates how well he's been scheduling his events lately, especially as he got up there in age. Former player Alex Corretja spoke to Eurosport about Djokovic, calling him the master of the calendar.
I think Djokovic is the master of the calendar because he knows exactly what he needs to do in every moment. But in order to do that, you need to know your body,...
- 10/17/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
According to former player Alex Corretja, who spoke to Eurosport, losing the world number one rank on the Wta Tour is not devastating for Iga Swiatek .
The Polish player lost her number-one rank quite recently after failing to defend her trophy from last year. Aryna Sabalenka took over , and while it was annoying for Swiatek to lose it, it wasn't a huge deal to her.
She spoke about it a few times since then, admitting that she wants it back, but her sole focus is mostly just on becoming a better player.
It's a good attitude to have because being world number one is essentially just being the most consistent player on Tour, which Aryna Sabalenka was this year.
It's a relatively easy fix, and that's to improve as a player, so by doing that, she's actively working to return to number one as well. In any case, Eurosport analyst...
The Polish player lost her number-one rank quite recently after failing to defend her trophy from last year. Aryna Sabalenka took over , and while it was annoying for Swiatek to lose it, it wasn't a huge deal to her.
She spoke about it a few times since then, admitting that she wants it back, but her sole focus is mostly just on becoming a better player.
It's a good attitude to have because being world number one is essentially just being the most consistent player on Tour, which Aryna Sabalenka was this year.
It's a relatively easy fix, and that's to improve as a player, so by doing that, she's actively working to return to number one as well. In any case, Eurosport analyst...
- 10/17/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former player and Eurosport analyst Alex Corretja shared his view on the recent performances of Carlos Alcaraz , which weren't up to his standard.
Alcaraz had high hopes for the Asian swing, hoping to possibly win a trophy but certainly to earn a lot of Atp points in his quest to finish the year as world number one.
It didn't quite work out, as he lost to Jannik Sinner at the China Open, which was a match he could have really won. The second loss came in Shanghai in another match that he could have won, but ultimately, he didn't win either.
It's not the same level or the confidence he had earlier in the year, and it's very visible. He's been quite nervous in his matches, which was evident in some of his reactions. Even so, none of that worries his compatriot Alex Corretja, who talked to Eurosport .
Alcaraz's Asian tour is not worrying.
Alcaraz had high hopes for the Asian swing, hoping to possibly win a trophy but certainly to earn a lot of Atp points in his quest to finish the year as world number one.
It didn't quite work out, as he lost to Jannik Sinner at the China Open, which was a match he could have really won. The second loss came in Shanghai in another match that he could have won, but ultimately, he didn't win either.
It's not the same level or the confidence he had earlier in the year, and it's very visible. He's been quite nervous in his matches, which was evident in some of his reactions. Even so, none of that worries his compatriot Alex Corretja, who talked to Eurosport .
Alcaraz's Asian tour is not worrying.
- 10/13/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former Wta player and current Eurosport tennis expert Barbara Schett showered praise on Novak Djokovic in the wake of his US Open win and says Carlos Alcaraz has a long way to go.
Djokovic was projected to meet Alcaraz in the 2023 US Open final, but the final that many expected and wanted never materialized as Daniil Medvedev authored a semifinal upset to end the young Spaniard's title defense , and put himself in contention to challenge Djokovic.
In a repeat of the 2021 US Open final, Djokovic avenged that loss , and he was looser and fitter than an opponent who was almost a decade younger. After three hours and 17 minutes, it was the indefatigable Serbian who completed the full dissection of Medvedev to earn a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam singles crown.
Speaking after the match, Schett told Eurosport there is the likelihood Djokovic's numbers will not be repeated, adding the colossal work...
Djokovic was projected to meet Alcaraz in the 2023 US Open final, but the final that many expected and wanted never materialized as Daniil Medvedev authored a semifinal upset to end the young Spaniard's title defense , and put himself in contention to challenge Djokovic.
In a repeat of the 2021 US Open final, Djokovic avenged that loss , and he was looser and fitter than an opponent who was almost a decade younger. After three hours and 17 minutes, it was the indefatigable Serbian who completed the full dissection of Medvedev to earn a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam singles crown.
Speaking after the match, Schett told Eurosport there is the likelihood Djokovic's numbers will not be repeated, adding the colossal work...
- 9/13/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Coco Gauff continues to receive so much praise for her US Open win, including from two-time French Open runner-up Alex Corretja.
Coco Gauff has rode the momentum in recent months, having picked up her biggest title to date at Washington , following that up with a memorable title win in Cincinnati and then she achieved her biggest ambition of taking home the US Open title .
She has won a big 18 of her last 19 matches, comfortably the longest run of form she has sustained at tour-level to this point. But many people like Alex Corretja recognise the qualities she brings off the court that can not only bring a new generation of fans into tennis, but keep them there, too.
"I like the way she behaves on the court and off the court. She is a great role model. I don't know if she's aware of how important she is for the sport,...
Coco Gauff has rode the momentum in recent months, having picked up her biggest title to date at Washington , following that up with a memorable title win in Cincinnati and then she achieved her biggest ambition of taking home the US Open title .
She has won a big 18 of her last 19 matches, comfortably the longest run of form she has sustained at tour-level to this point. But many people like Alex Corretja recognise the qualities she brings off the court that can not only bring a new generation of fans into tennis, but keep them there, too.
"I like the way she behaves on the court and off the court. She is a great role model. I don't know if she's aware of how important she is for the sport,...
- 9/11/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Iga Swiatek is not as dominant this year as she was in the previous year, with Alex Corretja noting that her dominance is a thing of the past.
The former Spanish player is not saying that Swiatek won't be winning trophies any more, as she very much will. Still, other players are stepping up recently and playing some fantastic tennis. We've seen Aryna Sabalenka win her first Grand Slam trophy earlier this year .
We've seen Elena Rybakina beating Swiatek, and the likes of Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff improving lately as well. No matter how good you can be, you can't and won't win every tournament you play. It looked like that last year, but this year is different as Corretja told Eurosport.
“The other players are also improving, and she's also learning how to play with different situations. And she can't just go and win every tournament. That's almost impossible.
The former Spanish player is not saying that Swiatek won't be winning trophies any more, as she very much will. Still, other players are stepping up recently and playing some fantastic tennis. We've seen Aryna Sabalenka win her first Grand Slam trophy earlier this year .
We've seen Elena Rybakina beating Swiatek, and the likes of Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff improving lately as well. No matter how good you can be, you can't and won't win every tournament you play. It looked like that last year, but this year is different as Corretja told Eurosport.
“The other players are also improving, and she's also learning how to play with different situations. And she can't just go and win every tournament. That's almost impossible.
- 8/27/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former Atp World No. 2 Alex Corretja tips Carlos Alcaraz to learn from his defeat in the Cincinnati Masters final, akin to what he did at Roland Garros.
Alcaraz fell to Novak Djokovic in a pulsating final last Sunday, coming within a point of winning his fifth Masters title, before it was snatched from his grasp by the indefatigable Serbian . Djokovic leveled the head-to-head 2-2 and has won their first hard-court meeting ahead of the 2023 US Open .
Many people believe that victory could be significant in tipping the scales in Djokovic's favor at this year's US Open, where Alcaraz is set to defend his title. Corretja rebuffs those claims of Djokovic owning a psychological edge in the matchup, stating that as long as Alcaraz committed to the cause - which he did - defeat is unlikely to weigh heavily on his shoulders.
"I think as long as you give you 100 percent,...
Alcaraz fell to Novak Djokovic in a pulsating final last Sunday, coming within a point of winning his fifth Masters title, before it was snatched from his grasp by the indefatigable Serbian . Djokovic leveled the head-to-head 2-2 and has won their first hard-court meeting ahead of the 2023 US Open .
Many people believe that victory could be significant in tipping the scales in Djokovic's favor at this year's US Open, where Alcaraz is set to defend his title. Corretja rebuffs those claims of Djokovic owning a psychological edge in the matchup, stating that as long as Alcaraz committed to the cause - which he did - defeat is unlikely to weigh heavily on his shoulders.
"I think as long as you give you 100 percent,...
- 8/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
How To Watch U.S. Open In Europe
Warner Bros. Discovery Europe has revealed that it will air every match from this year’s U.S. Open on Eurosport and Discovery+ across 45 markets.
As tennis fans gear up for the final Grand Slam, taking place at Flushing Meadows in New York City, they will be able to stream the tournament live and on-demand. In addition, viewers in the Nordics will have access to free-to-air coverage centered on players representing Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland.
On-site coverage will be led by former U.S. Open champions John McEnroe and Mats Wilander, alongside Alex Corretja and Barbara Schett. Justine Henin will also provide her insight from Paris.
“This year marks the first of our renewed and long-term partnership with the Usta which enables us to bring our passion for tennis, deep sports expertise and industry-leading production to the US Open, a tournament...
Warner Bros. Discovery Europe has revealed that it will air every match from this year’s U.S. Open on Eurosport and Discovery+ across 45 markets.
As tennis fans gear up for the final Grand Slam, taking place at Flushing Meadows in New York City, they will be able to stream the tournament live and on-demand. In addition, viewers in the Nordics will have access to free-to-air coverage centered on players representing Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland.
On-site coverage will be led by former U.S. Open champions John McEnroe and Mats Wilander, alongside Alex Corretja and Barbara Schett. Justine Henin will also provide her insight from Paris.
“This year marks the first of our renewed and long-term partnership with the Usta which enables us to bring our passion for tennis, deep sports expertise and industry-leading production to the US Open, a tournament...
- 8/21/2023
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Former player and Eurosport pundit Alex Corretja isn't worried about Carlos Alcaraz following his cramping episode at Roland Garros.
Cramping is fairly normal in tennis though it doesn't happen often if you prepare well. Alcaraz himself has had issues with it in the past. Earlier this year at the Miami Open, the Spaniard dealt with cramps that left him unable to compete as well as he had hoped against Sinner.
The same thing happened against Djokovic causing him to lose a match that was quite competitive. It's something former legendary player Connors called unacceptable but it's not something that worries Alcaraz's compatriot Alex Corretja too much. Speaking about the situation to Eurosport , Corretja called the situation normal.
Well, it is normal that it can end up like that. I am not worried at all. I sincerely believe that he is going to have a spectacular season and I am convinced...
Cramping is fairly normal in tennis though it doesn't happen often if you prepare well. Alcaraz himself has had issues with it in the past. Earlier this year at the Miami Open, the Spaniard dealt with cramps that left him unable to compete as well as he had hoped against Sinner.
The same thing happened against Djokovic causing him to lose a match that was quite competitive. It's something former legendary player Connors called unacceptable but it's not something that worries Alcaraz's compatriot Alex Corretja too much. Speaking about the situation to Eurosport , Corretja called the situation normal.
Well, it is normal that it can end up like that. I am not worried at all. I sincerely believe that he is going to have a spectacular season and I am convinced...
- 6/18/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Alexander Zverev booked his spot among the last four players at the 2023 Roland Garros , but he was criticized after his match.
The 26-year-old German defeated Tomas Martin Etcheverry in four sets and one year later, he will return to the Roland Garros semifinals at the Court Philippe-Chatrier. Event, round, and court, which saw him go probably through his worst experience as a professional tennis player on the Atp Tour.
Happy that he's through to the semifinals, Zverev was talking to Alex Corretja on the court after his win, and he was in a very good mood, giving very honest answers. He was asked what was going through his head when he was serving for the match, and well, the German was honest.
"I just had to remember that I have a pair of balls as well that I can use. Sometimes, that is the only way to go. But the...
The 26-year-old German defeated Tomas Martin Etcheverry in four sets and one year later, he will return to the Roland Garros semifinals at the Court Philippe-Chatrier. Event, round, and court, which saw him go probably through his worst experience as a professional tennis player on the Atp Tour.
Happy that he's through to the semifinals, Zverev was talking to Alex Corretja on the court after his win, and he was in a very good mood, giving very honest answers. He was asked what was going through his head when he was serving for the match, and well, the German was honest.
"I just had to remember that I have a pair of balls as well that I can use. Sometimes, that is the only way to go. But the...
- 6/7/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Jannik Sinner lost to Daniel Altmaier at Roland Garros and John McEnroe had some very strong words about the match.
McEnroe counts himself among Sinner's biggest fans on the tennis Tour due to the way he plays tennis. It's just a spectacle to watch because there are not many players that are capable of hitting the ball as well as Sinner can.
He demonstrated quite a bit of that at Roland Garros this year but ultimately he blew it. There is no other way to explain it because he had two match points and he didn't use them. After the match Sinner admitted that pressure and expectations got to him. McEnroe was very disappointed with the result and he told it like it is when talking to Eurosport.
I think that’s when you're proud to be a tennis player. You know, when you see guys go at it...
McEnroe counts himself among Sinner's biggest fans on the tennis Tour due to the way he plays tennis. It's just a spectacle to watch because there are not many players that are capable of hitting the ball as well as Sinner can.
He demonstrated quite a bit of that at Roland Garros this year but ultimately he blew it. There is no other way to explain it because he had two match points and he didn't use them. After the match Sinner admitted that pressure and expectations got to him. McEnroe was very disappointed with the result and he told it like it is when talking to Eurosport.
I think that’s when you're proud to be a tennis player. You know, when you see guys go at it...
- 6/2/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Quite a lot of people consider Carlos Alcaraz the favourite for Roland Garros but Marion Bartoli doesn't think he's an overwhelming one.
Alcaraz has been really strong so far this year winning a couple of events including two big ones in Madrid and Indian Wells. The Spaniard has all the qualities needed to win Roland Garros and many consider him the favourite for the event.
Even Djokovic would put him ahead of himself but he's certainly not the only one. Alex Corretja sees him as the favourite, as do his Eurosport colleagues Tim Henman and Barbara Schett. Even so, for Marion Bartoli, he's not the overwhelming favourite because there are other contenders as well.
Alcaraz is one of the favorites but he's not the overwhelming favorite. No, I don't think so. There is not one player who stands out in the pack.
It's not a particularly shocking opinion to have...
Alcaraz has been really strong so far this year winning a couple of events including two big ones in Madrid and Indian Wells. The Spaniard has all the qualities needed to win Roland Garros and many consider him the favourite for the event.
Even Djokovic would put him ahead of himself but he's certainly not the only one. Alex Corretja sees him as the favourite, as do his Eurosport colleagues Tim Henman and Barbara Schett. Even so, for Marion Bartoli, he's not the overwhelming favourite because there are other contenders as well.
Alcaraz is one of the favorites but he's not the overwhelming favorite. No, I don't think so. There is not one player who stands out in the pack.
It's not a particularly shocking opinion to have...
- 5/27/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz have the experience and skills to go all the way at the 2023 Roland Garros, according to Alex Corretja.
Djokovic will enter the second major of the season off the back of a dip in form, despite winning his 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January. In contrast, World number one Alcaraz has been in top form and has won four Atp titles this season, including Indian Wells and clay court competitions, the Barcelona Open and Madrid Open.
Both players certainly have the credentials to race into contention at Roland Garros. When speaking to Eurosport, former player Corretja gave his assessment of the pair and said that Djokovic's psychological approach to Grand Slams could give him an edge.
"He knows how to win [at Roland-Garros], he has done it already twice and he has won so many majors, he knows how to deal with the pressure...
Djokovic will enter the second major of the season off the back of a dip in form, despite winning his 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January. In contrast, World number one Alcaraz has been in top form and has won four Atp titles this season, including Indian Wells and clay court competitions, the Barcelona Open and Madrid Open.
Both players certainly have the credentials to race into contention at Roland Garros. When speaking to Eurosport, former player Corretja gave his assessment of the pair and said that Djokovic's psychological approach to Grand Slams could give him an edge.
"He knows how to win [at Roland-Garros], he has done it already twice and he has won so many majors, he knows how to deal with the pressure...
- 5/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
As the 2023 Roland Garros approaches, a spotlight shines bright on Carlos Alcaraz, who will be the top-seeded player at the event.
With the absence of 14-time champion Rafael Nadal, Alcaraz is tipped to carry the hopes of Spain in this prestigious Grand Slam event. The young phenom is already seen as the favorite for the tournament, ahead of the likes of Novak Djokovic and other contenders.
However, with Nadal's withdrawal, the pressure increases exponentially, especially because Alcaraz remains the only Spaniard with a real shot on the title in the draw. Alcaraz's position as the likely successor to Nadal's clay court dominance is no surprise.
The 20-year-old has already made an impressive mark in the tennis world. He is the first player born in the 2000s to win an Atp Masters 1000 title and has already bagged multiple Masters 1000 titles. Notably, he won the 2022 Miami Open, the 2022 Madrid Open, the 2023 Indian Wells Masters,...
With the absence of 14-time champion Rafael Nadal, Alcaraz is tipped to carry the hopes of Spain in this prestigious Grand Slam event. The young phenom is already seen as the favorite for the tournament, ahead of the likes of Novak Djokovic and other contenders.
However, with Nadal's withdrawal, the pressure increases exponentially, especially because Alcaraz remains the only Spaniard with a real shot on the title in the draw. Alcaraz's position as the likely successor to Nadal's clay court dominance is no surprise.
The 20-year-old has already made an impressive mark in the tennis world. He is the first player born in the 2000s to win an Atp Masters 1000 title and has already bagged multiple Masters 1000 titles. Notably, he won the 2022 Miami Open, the 2022 Madrid Open, the 2023 Indian Wells Masters,...
- 5/20/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Rafael Nadal won't be making his return anywhere but Roland Garros as she declined an invitation to the Bordeaux challenger.
Nadal has been out of action since the Australian Open earlier this year where he sustained a hip injury pretty early on at the event. He's yet to make a return pulling out of a couple of big events including the Madrid Open and then Italian Open this week.
Alex Corretja recently suggested that Nadal could opt to play an event before Roland Garros with Lyon and Geneva being two that are played in the week before. It doesn't seem likely as information came out about him declining an invitation to the Atp Challenger in Bordeaux which runs from May 14th to the 20th.
The information was confirmed by the tournament director of the event who spoke to L'Equipe about Nadal's agent turning down an offer for a wild card.
Nadal has been out of action since the Australian Open earlier this year where he sustained a hip injury pretty early on at the event. He's yet to make a return pulling out of a couple of big events including the Madrid Open and then Italian Open this week.
Alex Corretja recently suggested that Nadal could opt to play an event before Roland Garros with Lyon and Geneva being two that are played in the week before. It doesn't seem likely as information came out about him declining an invitation to the Atp Challenger in Bordeaux which runs from May 14th to the 20th.
The information was confirmed by the tournament director of the event who spoke to L'Equipe about Nadal's agent turning down an offer for a wild card.
- 5/14/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Rafael Nadal may be mulling over an unexpected comeback at an Atp 250 event, in a bid to reclaim his rhythm ahead of Roland Garros.
The Spanish King of Clay, known for his gritty determination and relentless pursuit of excellence, is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. His recent hip injury, suffered during the Australian Open, led to an unanticipated break from the sport, marking his longest absence from competitive tennis in years.
This injury has seen him withdraw from not only the Italian Open, but also the Monte-Carlo Masters, Barcelona Open, and Madrid Open, all pivotal clay-court tournaments in the lead-up to the Roland Garros.
Given the gravity of Nadal's absence, tennis fans have been left speculating on the champion's return. His decision to skip the Italian Open – traditionally the last clay-court rendezvous before the Roland Garros – added fuel to the whispers of concern.
Yet, the recent revelation from two-time...
The Spanish King of Clay, known for his gritty determination and relentless pursuit of excellence, is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. His recent hip injury, suffered during the Australian Open, led to an unanticipated break from the sport, marking his longest absence from competitive tennis in years.
This injury has seen him withdraw from not only the Italian Open, but also the Monte-Carlo Masters, Barcelona Open, and Madrid Open, all pivotal clay-court tournaments in the lead-up to the Roland Garros.
Given the gravity of Nadal's absence, tennis fans have been left speculating on the champion's return. His decision to skip the Italian Open – traditionally the last clay-court rendezvous before the Roland Garros – added fuel to the whispers of concern.
Yet, the recent revelation from two-time...
- 5/14/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former player Alex Corretja spoke exclusively to Eurosport in his role as a tennis analyst for them explaining that Rafael Nadal should be good to go for Roland Garros.
Many weeks ago there was chatter that Nadal would make his return at the Madrid Open however it didn't happen. Then there was chatter that he was going to play in Rome to get some matches under his belt ahead of Roland Garros but that too didn't happen.
Former player Alex Corretja was surprised by both things unfolding that way but he's rather optimistic about Nadal's chances in Paris. He shared that according to what he heard, Nadal is pretty much Ok to play but rather needs a bit more time.
We need to wait, there’s still a little bit of time. I was thinking maybe he could play the week before and get some matches. But I didn’t expect that one from Rome.
Many weeks ago there was chatter that Nadal would make his return at the Madrid Open however it didn't happen. Then there was chatter that he was going to play in Rome to get some matches under his belt ahead of Roland Garros but that too didn't happen.
Former player Alex Corretja was surprised by both things unfolding that way but he's rather optimistic about Nadal's chances in Paris. He shared that according to what he heard, Nadal is pretty much Ok to play but rather needs a bit more time.
We need to wait, there’s still a little bit of time. I was thinking maybe he could play the week before and get some matches. But I didn’t expect that one from Rome.
- 5/6/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
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