Alcaraz already a big server at age 19
There’s a lot to love about Carlos Alcaraz. The speed. The dropshots. The kick serve. And how about his big serve.
At age 19, he hit several serves over 130 miles per hour, including some at 133 on big points to beat Jan-Lennard Struff in five sets over fours at Wimbledon’s court 1.
His serving power at age 19 is extraordinary. Novak Djokovic, who notched 15 aces in his first round victory, only developed his serving power in the last few years, and he still doesn’t tend to reach beyond 120 mph. As a teenager, Rafa Nadal used to roll in serves to start the rallies. Andy Murray struggled with double faults and weak second serves before developing a wicked slider out wide.
Alcaraz is already far ahead of them in his serve development.
This could be crucial to any future success on grass.
“For me to play on grass is so beautiful,” Alcaraz said on Monday after his victory. “I like to play on grass. I would say my level on grass has to improve a little bit. But I’m happy with my level today.”
Alcaraz will need time to develop his feel and timing on the fresh green grass at The Championships. He’s giving himself that time by talking down his chances this fortnight.
“I don’t feel the pressure because I don’t rank myself as one of the favourites to win this tournament,” Alcaraz said. “if I play well, I have the level to win the tournament. But there are a lot more experienced players on grass. I don’t feel the pressure.”
His opponents are going to feel that pressure, especially if he keeps serving in the 130s.
—words and images copyright Christopher Johnson Globalite Media, all rights reserved
