Carlos Alcaraz issues an apology for his ‘incorrect attitude’ after the racquet-smashing act: ‘When your heart rate is so high…’
Carlos Alcaraz has expressed regret for his racquet-smashing antics after the Cincinnati Open loss to Gael Monfils.
Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz issued a heartfelt apology following his heated reaction during the loss to Gael Monfils at the Cincinnati Open on Friday. In an uncharacteristic display of frustration, the youngster, currently ranked No. 3 in the ATP rankings, smashed his racquet on the court multiple times during the third set. Alcaraz ultimately fell to the 37-year-old Monfils in a hard-fought match that ended 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4.
The 21-year-old Spaniard took to X on Saturday to apologize for his behavior and to acknowledge that his demeanor during the game was inappropriate. Alcaraz acknowledged that it was difficult to control his emotions during the intense moment, but he committed to improving his temper control in subsequent games.
“I am sorry for my improper attitude yesterday; it was inappropriate to act in such a manner on the track. Since I’m a human, I have a lot of nerves, and when your heart rate is so high, it may be really hard to manage yourself. I’ll do my part to ensure that it doesn’t occur again. Now is the moment to consider NYC! Written by Alcaraz.
Alcaraz returned to the court for this match following his tight loss to Novak Djokovic at the Paris Olympics, where he took home a silver medal. His defeat by Monfils was an unsatisfactory end to his Olympic career, particularly in light of the fact that Djokovic defeated him in the Cincinnati final the previous year.
“The worst game I have ever played”
Alcaraz expressed his annoyance in the post-match remarks as well, referring to the defeat to Monfils as his “worst match” to date.
“It was the worst match that I ever played in my career,” Alcaraz stated. “I was unable to participate.
“I have no idea what transpired. To be honest, I was unable to contain myself. I’m simply the best. That’s all: there was no way to win.”
Entering the US Open a week from Monday, the ATP’s No. 3 player and 2023 Cincinnati finalist has yet to win a hardcourt match this season and has only played one second-round summer match. Alcaraz, who won the title in 2022 but only made it to the semifinals of the competition last year, will still be considered a favorite despite the loss.
