‘I’m jealous that Roger Federer didn’t watch my match!’ Carlos Alcaraz wants a famous face in the crowd

World No 1 Carlos Alcaraz began his Wimbledon campaign with a win over Jeremy Chardy on Court No 1 – while defending ladies’ singles champion Elena Rybakina played out her victory on Centre Court with Roger Federer watching from the Royal Box.

“After the match I was with the phone checking everything I have, all the stories, all the posts. I saw that Roger Federer was here,” he said in his press conference, with a smile. “I was a little bit jealous! Honestly, I want Roger Federer to watch one of my matches obviously. I wish to talk a little bit with him. For me would be amazing. I hope to see him around more than once.”

Asked about his feelings on a potential rematch with Novak Djokovic after their disappointing Roland-Garros semi-final that was hampered by the younger man’s cramp, Alcaraz was clear.

“The main reason that I had cramp in the semi-final was the tension that I had facing Novak in the semi-final of a Grand Slam. I’m sure the experience is really important part on that.

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“I think I learned a lot from that match to the next time I’m going to face Novak. It’s going to be different for me. I’m going to deal the pressure better than I did in the semi-final of French Open.

“Yeah, all I talk with [coach] Juan Carlos [Ferrero] is that, is the pressure, is the tension. I can’t play with that tension. As I said, it’s going to be different the next time.”

Pressed on whether he felt he was the leader of the new generation challenging the old guard, he was warm with his praise for his rivals.

“I don’t feel that I’m the best of my generation. I mean, Sinner is there. Rune, as well. They are playing a great level. I mean, it’s 1-0 head-to-head against Rune. I mean, he’s up on me right now. Great matches with Jannik.

“I don’t feel at the time I’m the best in my generation. There are a lot of great players in my age that each are there right now. We are going to share great moments. That’s all I can say right now.”

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