In Indian Wells, California, Carlos Alcaraz, the back-to-back champion of the BNP Paribas Open, commented that the absence of the world’s top-ranked player, Jannik Sinner, hasn’t affected his approach to this week’s competition at Indian Wells.
Jannik Sinner, who holds the current titles for both the Australian Open and US Open and reached the semifinals in Indian Wells last year, is currently serving a three-month suspension. This follows two positive tests for small amounts of Clostebol nearly twelve months ago. He will be eligible to compete again in the clay season starting in May.
Alcaraz explained to reporters on Tuesday at his media day conference, “Even though Jannik isn’t playing, the field is packed with many of the world’s top players. I believe the draw is wide open with a lot of players performing exceptionally well.”
Despite Sinner’s absence, Alcaraz emphasized that his focus remains unchanged. “For me, the strategy remains the same. My concentration is on my own performance and striving to play excellent tennis here,” he noted.
At 21, Alcaraz is aiming to join tennis legends Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only men to have won three consecutive titles in the Californian desert. However, he insists that breaking records isn’t his main concern.
“I’m trying not to fixate on making history,” Alcaraz expressed. “The key is to enjoy the moment. Each time I come here, it’s a pleasure—practicing, playing. Everything feels effortless to me in this place. I wait eagerly all year to return.”
He continued, “I’ll just go with the flow and see how things unfold. Winning here again would be incredible, but I’m focused on savoring the experience above all.”
Alcaraz has a bye in the first round and is set to face either Quentin Halys or a qualifier in Saturday’s second-round match.
