MADRID — Rising tennis star Carlos Alcaraz has been making headlines not just for his electrifying performances on the court but also for a playful family dynamic off it. The 20-year-old Spaniard, often compared to legends like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, recently found himself on the receiving end of a lighthearted scolding from his mother, Virginia Garfia, over his growing collection of trophies.
Alcaraz, who has already claimed two Grand Slam titles (the 2022 US Open and 2023 Wimbledon), has developed a habit of keeping his trophies close—sometimes too close for his mother’s liking. In a recent interview, Garfia joked about her son’s reluctance to part with his hard-earned silverware, contrasting it with Djokovic’s more disciplined approach. "Novak sends his trophies straight to a museum. Carlos? He wants them all in his room!" she quipped.
A Mother’s Gentle Warning
Garfia’s comments came after Alcaraz’s latest triumph at the Indian Wells Masters, where he defended his title in dominant fashion. The young phenom has been vocal about his admiration for Djokovic’s professionalism, but when it comes to trophy management, he’s carving his own path. "I like to see them every day—they remind me of the hard work and the dreams I’ve achieved," Alcaraz admitted.
His mother, however, sees it differently. She playfully warned him about the logistical challenges of his growing collection:
- "Soon, there won’t be space for anything else in his bedroom!"
- "We might need to build a separate house just for trophies."
- "Novak has the right idea—share them with the world."
The Djokovic Comparison
Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, is known for his meticulous approach to career management, including his trophy distribution. The Serbian star has donated many of his awards to museums, academies, and even his childhood club in Belgrade. "Trophies are symbols of moments, but the real value is in the journey," Djokovic once said.
Alcaraz, meanwhile, is still in the phase of savoring every milestone. His parents—both former athletes—have been instrumental in keeping him grounded. His father, Carlos Alcaraz Sr., a former tennis player himself, emphasized the importance of humility. "We remind him that trophies are just metal and glass. The real prize is the respect you earn."
The Balancing Act
Despite the playful teasing, Alcaraz’s family remains his biggest support system. His mother’s comments highlight the delicate balance between celebrating success and staying focused on the future. "We’re proud, but we also know this is just the beginning," Garfia said.
Alcaraz, currently ranked No. 2 in the world, is expected to challenge Djokovic for the top spot in the coming months. His next major test will be the French Open, where he aims to add a third Grand Slam to his rapidly expanding collection—whether his mother approves of the clutter or not.
Conclusion
Carlos Alcaraz’s refusal to part with his trophies may be a small rebellion in an otherwise disciplined career, but it’s a reminder of his youthful exuberance. While Djokovic’s methodical approach has its merits, Alcaraz’s passion for keeping his achievements close is endearing—even if it means an eventual home renovation. "For now, let him enjoy it," his mother conceded with a laugh. "But one day, we’ll have to talk about a museum."