Andy Roddick has hailed Carlos Alcaraz’s easy-going nature after spotting that the former US Open winner had no problem making time for fans, staff and strangers alike at the major tournament. The Spaniard has made it through three rounds of the Grand Slam without dropping a set, beating the likes of Reilly Opelka, Mattia Bellucci and Luciano Darderi.
The world No. 2 is looking to win his sixth Grand Slam title, but a potential meeting with tennis icon Novak Djokovic could be waiting for Alcaraz if he makes it to the semi-final – and Jannik Sinner may well be seeing him again for another blockbuster final match. The 22-year-old has secured six titles so far this year, including the French Open, and is aiming for his second major win in 2025. However, ex-tennis star Roddick has pointed out that karma won’t be against Alcaraz, given just how sweet and generous the youngster can be when it comes to meeting fans and speaking with tournament staff.
Speaking on his podcast, Served with Andy Roddick, the American expressed his shock and joy at seeing Alcaraz make the time for everyone at Flushing Meadows, regardless of their social stature. The former US Open winner said: “I’ll tell you the little things, like I’m walking from 30 feet away to exit to go to where you get transportation yesterday.
“He’s walking in, talking to everyone, everyone running the security gates and walking in. He literally has time for every conversation on the way. And it’s not put on. It’s just the way he is.”
Roddick added: “I wasn’t one to want to small talk when I was going to work. I just wasn’t.
“But the game’s better. Every single person that comes across him, no matter what their job is at the US Open, goes, ‘You know what? I really like that guy.’ He just has an easy smile. He’s just easy to be around.”
Roddick isn’t the only one to have noticed Alcaraz’s kind nature, however; after losing the 2023 Indian Wells final to the Spaniard, rival Daniil Medvedev was quick to point out his opponent’s good heart and respectful personality.
During the trophy ceremony, the Russian said: “You are probably the most respectful player on tour, saying hello to 300 people per day.”
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Alcaraz spoke after his third-round match with Darderi, admitting that he was extra pleased with the straight-sets victory as he is “not an early person” and doesn’t enjoy morning matches.
“I’m not an early person,” said Alcaraz. “For me, it’s difficult to wake up in the mornings. That’s one of the good things about today – I woke up early, did the warm-up and played good.”
He added: “I just tried to start awake. Starting at 11:30 is something I’m not used to, so my first goal was to start well, focused, with energy and a good rhythm.
“I started pretty well, pushing him to the limit and trying to play long rallies. I played great tennis and I’m really proud about it.”
Next up for the Spaniard is a round of 16 clash against Arthur Rinderknech on Sunday, with a spot in the quarter-finals up for grabs. While it will be one game at a time for the young tennis star, it is safe to say he is setting his sights firmly on securing another major singles title, to push him two away from his nearest rival, Sinner.
