TORONTO, Aug 10 – Tennis icon Andy Murray has applauded world number one Carlos Alcaraz for his fearless and instinctive playing style, urging the young sensation to retain his unbridled approach on the court, even if it occasionally appears audacious.
Murray, who accurately predicted two years ago that Alcaraz would ascend to tennis stardom, has lauded the reigning U.S. Open and Wimbledon champion’s exceptional prowess. He emphasized that Alcaraz’s game is not solely defined by his power and technical finesse.
“What strikes me the most when watching him is the unrestrained freedom with which he plays, a trait closely tied to his youth,” Murray shared on the ATP website during the Canadian Open. “While it might seem a bit ‘kamikaze’ at times, it’s a manifestation of his pure instinct. And that’s something I genuinely admire.”
The three-time Grand Slam champion Murray recounted an insightful conversation he had with Alcaraz’s coach Juan Carlos Ferrero when the Spaniard was still outside the top 50 rankings worldwide.
“I questioned Ferrero, ‘Does he have a genuine passion for tennis? Is he dedicated to hard work?'” Murray recounted, mentioning that Ferrero, a former world number one, assured him of Alcaraz’s commitment to these aspects. “That was enough for me. Combining my observations of his gameplay with the affirmation from his coach, someone intimately acquainted with dedication, I was convinced he was bound for an illustrious career.”
Both Murray and Alcaraz are currently participating in the Toronto tournament this week, honing their skills for the impending U.S. Open scheduled to commence on Aug. 28.
