Alkarath: “Ever since I was a kid, I’ve dreamed of becoming a Grand Slam champion and number 1”

Carlos Alcarath made history by beating Casper Rudd in the US Open finalbecame the youngest tennis player in history to reach No. 1 in the world rankings on a momentous day for him as he won the first Grand Slam title of his career.

In his speech immediately after the final, the 19-year-old Spaniard, after referring to the tragic anniversary of 9/11, dedicated the title win to his mother and grandfather, who were not on the field while he shared them with the whole world his first thoughts as the world’s top tennis player.

What he said in detail:

“It is a very special day for everyone. My thoughts are with you today. Living this day as usual is never easy. I will remember this day and think of you forever.

It has been a dream of mine since I was a child to become a Grand Slam champion and number 1 in the world at the same time. I work very hard for it. It’s hard to talk about right now because it’s so emotional, but it’s something I’ve been trying to achieve for years.

All my hard work, that of my team and my family paid off today. I’m only 19 years old and the most important decisions are made by my parents and my team, so today is very special.

During the celebrations I thought of my mother and grandfather who are not here today. Many of my family members are in my box today, but there are also many in my country because they couldn’t come to see the final in person. I’m thinking about her right now.

I’m a bit tired now, but I shouldn’t have been tired before the final. I said earlier this week that I’m never tired. That’s true as long as I’m racing. At every tournament. I have to give everything on the pitch. Everything I have inside me

That’s why I work. And like I said before the final, there’s no time to get tired.”

Source: Tennis24