Carlos Alcaraz has been called many names around the tennis world. He is currently playing at the China Open and is having a great debut so far. The Spaniard is fondly called “Carlitos” by his fans and has been the name in his hometown in Spain. Alcaraz provided insights on what he calls himself in the press conference at the China Open.
The world No.2 said that he calls himself “Carlitos” or “Charlie.” The name is not so common in Spain, but Alcaraz said that he doesn’t mind people calling him both names. He did not mention where he got the name “Charlie” from. Alcaraz had spoken about not liking people calling him “Carlos” as it feels like he has done something wrong.
That’s his nickname, he goes by Charlie or Carlitos
— shaffffff (@OmnipotentBi) March 20, 2023
The 20-year-old will now have new fans in Beijing as he will be getting recognized all around China. Alcaraz will be happy that his fanbase is increasing, but he will always be under the spotlight now. Ever since his US Open victory last season, the young champion has been known all over the world.
Carlos Alcaraz is still getting accustomed to fame
The rise of a young athlete in every game is a treat to watch. From being an underdog in events, then slowly transforming into the favorite takes years to achieve but brings in a lot of fame and wealth. Alcaraz was not a known player until the 2021 season. He could walk on the streets without anybody knowing his identity. But now things are different for the young sensation.
Alcaraz has only increased his fame with the Wimbledon win. He also held the No.1 ranking for a few weeks until Novak Djokovic took his place. The 2023 Wimbledon champion had said that he does not like getting recognized sometimes. Alcaraz talked about how walking on the streets undisturbed is almost impossible now. He understands the popularity of the game and his impact on the fans.
Carlos Alcaraz says he sometimes wishes to be able to walk unrecognized:
“Sometimes I like it; sometimes no. Sometimes you want to feel like a normal guy, to walk normally. Here in New York, there are a lot of Spanish people, South American people as well. It’s difficult for me… pic.twitter.com/lTyYbdljEg
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 26, 2023
The two-time grand slam champion will get used to the feeling on top. Alcaraz’s arch-rival, Djokovic, had the same experience 15 years ago. Now, the veteran is used to every emotion of the game. So Alcaraz will not have to bother too much about the feeling. That’s a price he will have to pay for being one of the future legends of the sport.
