Carlos Alcaraz is not known for frequent disputes with umpires, but when he does express frustration, it’s typically for a valid reason. Such an incident occurred during the 2024 China Open.
The young Spaniard, who grew up admiring players like Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, typically avoids on-court outbursts. He rarely breaks his racket in frustration; however, he made an exception recently in Cincinnati, which caught many by surprise. Alcaraz later apologized for his actions and vowed not to repeat them, acknowledging that despite his efforts to remain composed, he is only human, susceptible to the same emotions as anyone else.
Alcaraz’s frustration was evident once again during his recent match at the China Open, where he faced Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, a powerful server. Although Alcaraz managed a solid performance, securing the win in straight sets, he found himself at odds with umpire Raluca Andrei over time violations.
The incident that sparked Alcaraz’s ire involved two time violations given in a single game—a rarity for the usually prompt player. He expressed his displeasure, arguing that he rarely receives time violations, let alone two in the same game. The second violation cost him his first serve during a crucial set point, making the timing of the decision particularly frustrating.
After the match, Alcaraz elaborated on his discontent, explaining that he felt he had been rushed. “Obviously, I was a little bit mad about the time rule because I feel like I have no time. I have to run between points. I have no time to have a break, to rest, or to breathe. I mean, if I finish the point at the net, which was the case, I have no time to go to the towel and do my routine.”
He further addressed the situation: “I was a little bit mad about it. Yeah, the emotions of the close first set, it was really important for me to come into the second set with energy and confidence. That’s what I did.”
The shot clock, introduced to regulate the time between points, has been a contentious addition to tennis, with varying opinions among players. While some, like Rafael Nadal, who take longer between points, may not be in favor of the rule, others like Nick Kyrgios or Daniil Medvedev, who tend to play more rapidly, are less affected. Yet, even the latter group can find themselves needing extra time after a grueling rally. Alcaraz seems to strike a balance between the two styles, but this time, he felt the rule was enforced too strictly.
Ultimately, the incident underscores the challenges players face in adapting to the shot clock, with its enforcement varying by umpire. For Alcaraz, this was one of those rare moments where he felt compelled to voice his frustration.