Carlos es un tenista increíble, para mí es mi jugador favorito, el que más me gusta ver,
John McEnroe stated during an appearance on the Cadena SER program El Larguero, hosted by Manu Carreño, reflecting his deep admiration for Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz.
McEnroe, currently in Madrid to captain a squad alongside retired Argentine player Gabriela Sabatini at the Sanitas Foundation Inclusive Masters, used his media appearances in the Spanish capital to offer a sweeping assessment of modern tennis. Beyond his praise for Alcaraz, the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion also addressed the remarkable career of Serbian star Novak Djokovic, highlighting how both players continue to shape the sport.
John McEnroe Evaluates Carlos Alcaraz And Modern Rivals
Speaking to Manu Carreño on El Larguero, McEnroe analyzed the distinct qualities that have propelled 23-year-old Carlos Alcaraz to the upper echelon of professional tennis. The American emphasized the Murcia native’s natural flair, tactical adaptability, and diverse shot selection during high-stakes matches.
Gracias a Dios, vino después de Rafa Nadal, Roger Federer… Ha hecho que Jannik Sinner sea mejor y Sinner le ha hecho mejor también,
McEnroe said in Spanish translation provided by the broadcast, acknowledging the generational lineage that connects Alcaraz and rival Jannik Sinner to Spanish great Rafael Nadal and Swiss icon Roger Federer.
The former champion also added a lighthearted remark about Alcaraz’s recent absence from the tour, quipping about the player’s return to competition: Me preocupó en Wimbledon porque este deporte no es el mismo cuando Carlos no está. Ahora vuelve, tiene un pelo fantástico, está todo perfecto.
Novak Djokovic And The Limits Of Longevity In Tennis
Shifting his focus to the upper age limits of elite competition, McEnroe addressed the enduring dominance of Novak Djokovic. At 39 years old, the Serbian competitor continues to challenge younger opponents across a rigorous global calendar, sustaining a level of physical conditioning and mental discipline that defies typical athletic timelines.
Es un jugador increíble, tal vez el mejor de la historia,
McEnroe declared during the interview. Aunque me encanta Roger Federer o Rafa Nadal, el hecho de que Novak Djokovic siga con tanta garra y tantas ganas es increíble.
McEnroe Captains Inclusive Tennis Tournament in Madrid
McEnroe’s commentary arrives during a busy professional trip to Madrid, where the American tennis great has taken on a leadership role at the Sanitas Foundation Inclusive Masters. Alongside Gabriela Sabatini, McEnroe serves as a team captain for the tournament, an initiative designed to champion inclusive tennis and expand the sport’s visibility.
Throughout his own playing career, McEnroe established a permanent place in tennis history by securing seven major singles titles—four at the US Open and three at Wimbledon—while accumulating 11 finals and 19 semifinal appearances across Grand Slam singles events. That competitive pedigree underpins his analysis of modern athletes like Alcaraz and Djokovic, whose current campaigns continue through the ongoing tennis calendar.
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