Carlos Alcaraz prepared for Wimbledon in the best possible way by winning Queen’s, and now he’s revealed what he’s most excited for at SW19.
Alcaraz scooped up $425,000 for winning Queen’s as he toppled Czech player Jiri Lehecka in a close-fought three sets.
History was made yet again by the Spaniard as Alcaraz equalled Rafael Nadal’s all-time grass court tournament wins by picking up his fourth trophy on the surface.
With all eyes turning toward Wimbledon, Alcaraz has revealed the one thing he’s most excited by as he looks to defend his title for the second year running.
Carlos Alcaraz can’t wait to open Centre Court at Wimbledon
Alcaraz spoke to the Queen’s Club press after winning the London tournament for the second time in three years.
The 22-year-old is expected to take a week off from tournaments ahead of Wimbledon, but the iconic competition is already on his mind.
“I am super excited. I am excited,” said the Queen’s winner about the third Grand Slam of the year. Alcaraz said he’s excited to play his first match on Centre Court, which will see the defending champion open the tournament as is tradition.
“I have talked with my team and my family, that I am super excited to play the first match on Centre Court once again,” said Alcaraz. “It is going to be a really beautiful moment.”
As the defending champion from 2023, Alcaraz also opened up the competition at last year’s event. He played qualifier Mark Lajal and defeated the Estonian in straight sets.
Former Wimbledon winner makes Carlos Alcaraz ‘red-hot favourite’
Pat Cash provided BBC Five Live commentary on Alcaraz’s win against Lehecka and his performance caused the Aussie to make a bold prediction.
The former World No. 4 claimed Alcaraz simply had to be made favourite for SW19 after his grass court expedition at Queen’s.
“You can’t really expect better form for him to come into Wimbledon, he’s obviously the player to beat,” he told the BBC.
He added: “I wouldn’t back against him winning the title at Wimbledon … Alcaraz, red-hot favourite for sure.”
Alcaraz is certainly in the mix for Wimbledon, along with Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and Britain’s Jack Draper.