MADRID — In the high-stakes, high-pressure world of professional tennis, where the glare of the spotlight is relentless, the true measure of a champion is often taken away from the roar of the crowd. For Carlos Alcaraz, the young Spaniard who has captivated the sport with his explosive power and joyous demeanor, his character off the court has remained a subject of warm speculation. Now, a revealing story from a close ally has painted a vivid picture of the humility and grounded nature that underpins the world number one's public persona.
A Glimpse Behind the Champion's Curtain
The insight comes from Juan Carlos Ferrero, Alcaraz's coach, mentor, and former world number one himself. In a recent interview with Spanish media, Ferrero shared a poignant anecdote from the immediate aftermath of Alcaraz's historic Wimbledon victory in 2023. After defeating Novak Djokovic in a thrilling five-set final to claim his second Grand Slam title, one might expect a night of unbridled celebrity celebration. For Alcaraz, the reality was strikingly different. Ferrero revealed that the champion's first request was not for a lavish party, but to return to their rented house, share a quiet meal with his tight-knit team, and play cards—a tradition they maintained throughout the tournament.
"It tells you everything about him," Ferrero said. "You win Wimbledon, you make history, and your first thought is to go back to the house with the people who have been with you every day. He wanted normality. He wanted to be with his team, to laugh, to play a game, to just be Carlos. That’s his true colour. The fame, the glory, it doesn’t change his core. For a young man with the world at his feet, that is incredibly rare and special."
The Foundation in Villena
This behaviour is not an isolated incident but a product of a steadfast upbringing in the small town of Villena, Spain. Alcaraz’s family, particularly his father, Carlos Sr., has been instrumental in instilling values that prioritize humility and hard work over hype. Ferrero, who runs the JC Ferrero Equelite Academy where Alcaraz honed his skills, has always emphasized the importance of character alongside forehands and drop shots. The team around Alcaraz—a carefully selected group of childhood friends, family, and trusted professionals—acts as a constant anchor, ensuring the bubble of fame remains permeable to reality.
Alcaraz’s interactions with fans and ball kids are legendary on tour, often involving extended signing sessions and genuine engagement. Fellow players frequently speak of his respectful nature in the locker room. This consistent display of humility, Ferrero suggests, is effortless because it is authentic. "He doesn't have to *act* humble," Ferrero noted. "He simply *is*. He understands his privilege and feels a responsibility to give back the joy he receives from the fans. It’s a reciprocal energy for him."
Pillars of Alcaraz's Personality
The stories from those within his circle consistently highlight several key traits that define Alcaraz away from the cameras:
Unwavering Work Ethic: Even after major victories, his commitment to training is immediate and intense. Ferrero has joked about having to "slow him down" to prevent burnout.
Loyalty to His Roots: He remains deeply connected to Villena, returning frequently and maintaining friendships from childhood. His team is an extension of his family.
A Childlike Joy: His love for simple pleasures—playing video games, football with friends, or watching movies—is a non-negotiable part of his routine.
The Balance of Fire and Calm
On the court, Alcaraz is a whirlwind of explosive movement, audacious shot-making, and vocal passion. This contrast with his off-court serenity is perhaps his most fascinating duality. Ferrero manages this balance carefully, allowing the competitive fire to burn brightly within the lines while ensuring it is banked when the match ends. The coach credits Alcaraz's ability to compartmentalize as a major strength. "He can be screaming for a point one moment, and then an hour later, he is completely detached, focused on recovering or enjoying a joke," Ferrero explained.
This mindset was severely tested during Alcaraz's recent forearm injury struggles in 2024, which forced him to miss tournaments like the Italian Open and cast doubt on his French Open participation. Through the frustration, his team reported the same resilient, process-oriented attitude. Rather than dwelling on the setback, he was reportedly focused entirely on his rehabilitation, trusting his team and maintaining a positive atmosphere around him—a testament to the mental fortitude that complements his physical gifts.
A Legacy Beyond Titles
In an era where sports stars are global brands, the pressure to cultivate a marketable image is immense. What makes Alcaraz’s story resonate is the apparent absence of calculation. The "private behaviour" revealed by Ferrero isn't a curated PR strategy; it's a reflection of a young man who, despite achieving stratospheric success, still measures his life by the quality of his relationships and the authenticity of his experiences. He carries the hopes of Spanish tennis, following in the monumental footsteps of Rafael Nadal, yet he does so with a distinctly sunny and open disposition that is entirely his own.
As Ferrero succinctly put it, "We work every day on his tennis, on his physique, on his tactics. But we never have to work on his heart. That was already perfect when he arrived. My job, and the job of his family, is to protect that. Because that heart—that kindness, that humility—is what will sustain him long after the last trophy is won. It is, in many ways, his greatest strength." For fans of the sport, this glimpse behind the champion's curtain is a reassuring reminder that the game's brightest young star is not just a phenomenal athlete, but a grounded and admirable individual. His true colours, as revealed by those who know him best, shine as brightly as his trophy cabinet.