Carlos Alcaraz Faces Tough Times as His Form Struggles to Recover After Early Losses in Miami and Indian Wells

As I chatted with a well-known tennis agent last year during the US Open in a Manhattan hotel lobby, we discussed the legacies of tennis’ Big Three—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.

What will they leave behind in the sport once they retire, aside from their unforgettable records and incredible feats?

This thought resurfaced on Sunday when I saw three images in quick succession: Federer unveiling a new Lindt store in London, Nadal sharing a heartwarming moment with Alexandra Eala at her graduation from his academy, and Djokovic posing with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a controversial vaccine skeptic.

Each image reflects something about the public perception of these three figures—Federer looking sharp and dignified in his suit, Nadal continuing his legacy of inspiring the next generation, and Djokovic, who remains a polarizing figure, facing a maelstrom of both admiration and criticism.

The Legacies of Federer and Nadal: A Clean Business Image and Global Impact

Roger Federer has always been the darling of sponsors, maintaining a squeaky-clean public image.

His most significant post-tennis venture, the Laver Cup, was co-created with the hope that it could become tennis’ answer to the Ryder Cup.

While it’s been enjoyable to watch, it hasn’t quite had the global impact that many expected.

On the other hand, Rafael Nadal’s legacy lies in his expansive tennis academies, which started in his hometown of Manacor and now have locations worldwide.

A fifth academy is planned for Marbella, and a sixth is set to open in Saudi Arabia.

While Nadal’s association with Saudi Arabia, due to his £600 million contract as a tennis ambassador, has raised some eyebrows due to the country’s human rights record, his commitment to growing the sport globally is undeniable.

Djokovic’s Polarizing Legacy: Will He Shape the Future of Tennis?

Out of the Big Three, Novak Djokovic is by far the most polarizing.

While Federer and Nadal seem to have stuck with safer, more conventional paths, Djokovic has often chosen a more controversial route.

From his stance on the Covid vaccine to his outspoken views on tennis governance, Djokovic doesn’t shy away from stirring the pot.

His decision to co-found the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) and take on the ATP has been a game-changer in the sport.

The ongoing lawsuit, Vasek Pospisil et al. vs the ATP, is a significant step in challenging the structure of tennis.

If successful, this legal battle could drastically reshape the sport, giving players more negotiating power and a greater share of the revenue.

Whether this lawsuit succeeds or not, it could very well define Djokovic’s legacy in tennis.

The Risk of the PTPA: What Could Happen if the Lawsuit Fails?

The PTPA faces significant risks. If the lawsuit ends in failure, it could damage the players’ association’s reputation.

And if they succeed, but the changes they push for lead to a fracture in the tennis tours, we could see a scenario similar to golf’s LIV series—a major disruption in the sport’s structure.

But if the lawsuit succeeds in reforming tennis and bringing players more power, Djokovic’s willingness to challenge the system could leave a legacy more impactful than that of Federer or Nadal.

Carlos Alcaraz’s Struggles: What’s Going Wrong?

Now, let’s talk about Carlos Alcaraz. The young Spanish prodigy, who won the 2022 US Open, is currently going through a tough patch.

His losses to David Goffin in Miami and Jack Draper in Indian Wells have raised questions about his form.

Despite being one of the most exciting players on tour, his win rate on hard courts since his US Open victory is lower than that of rivals like Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic.

Alcaraz’s offseason adjustments, including a tweak to his serve and a slight increase in racket weight, might be contributing factors.

But the bigger issue is that he just doesn’t seem to have a clear tactical plan on court.

His natural flair and variety of shots are still there, but his understanding of when and how to use them seems to have taken a step backward.

It’s a reminder that growth is not always linear, especially for young prodigies like Alcaraz.

At just 21 years old, it’s still too early to panic. His transition to clay might help him regain his form, but it could also be time for him to consider fresh perspectives in his coaching team.

Juan Carlos Ferrero has been with him since he was 15, but perhaps adding another voice to the mix could help Alcaraz regain his direction.

Alexandra Eala: A Rising Star to Watch

One player who’s truly shining at the Miami Open is 19-year-old Filipino Alexandra Eala.

After leaving home at just 13 to train at Rafael Nadal’s academy in Mallorca, Eala has been on a steady rise.

Her victory over Grand Slam champions Jelena Ostapenko and Madison Keys has turned heads, and on Wednesday, she faces Iga Swiatek, the woman who was by her side when she graduated from Nadal’s academy.

Eala plays a similar style to fellow lefty Leylah Fernandez but with a bit more power.

She has proven herself to be a fierce competitor and will undoubtedly be a force to reckon with in the coming years. Keep an eye on her—she’s one to watch.