Carlos Alcaraz stepped into the media spotlight at the Laver Cup in London with a clear message for tennis authorities: it is time to institute a strict curfew on late-night matches. The Spanish star’s call for change quickly gained a notable endorsement from Boris Becker, who backed the proposal with a blunt response on social media.
Alcaraz Demands Scheduling Overhaul
The debate over match timing resurfaced as Alcaraz prepared to open his Laver Cup campaign in London. The Spanish player voiced frustration over scheduling issues that push high-profile matches deep into the early morning hours, pointing directly to his grueling US Open quarterfinal against Ben Shelton. That late-night encounter concluded at 3:33 a.m., establishing a tournament record for the latest-finishing match.
The 11 PM Curfew Proposal
“I think it is too much to finish that late,” Alcaraz said in the mixed zone at the Laver Cup. “Many people stayed for our match, but if it had been played earlier, the court would have been full. I would like this to change a bit, with a curfew at 11 to finish or something like that. I think it would be better.”
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The star’s stance resonates widely across the professional circuit, where players and former competitors alike have increasingly criticized grueling graveyard shifts. Becker, the German ex-player, took to his account on the platform X to endorse the suggestion with a single, unequivocal word: “Amen.”
High Praise From Boris Becker
Becker has frequently expressed deep admiration for the Spanish player’s impact on the sport. Earlier this year in April, during media engagements surrounding the Laureus ceremony, the former champion did not hesitate to praise Alcaraz’s unique style of play.
“He is a fascinating player. He is exactly what the tennis world needed,” Becker told international journalists at the time. “He is very charismatic. A joy to watch. A true artist on the court.”
Analyzing the Young Champion
During those same remarks in April, Becker analyzed Alcaraz’s competitive profile and concluded that the young champion “does not have a weakness.” However, the German added a vital caveat regarding the mental challenges facing elite athletes who operate at an exceptional level.
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“All artists have to be inspired,” Becker noted. “He is inspired by Sinner and by certain challenges. But if matches go too easily for him, he probably feels a bit bored.”
Laver Cup Debut Looms
Alcaraz’s immediate focus in London centers on team competition rather than individual scheduling disputes. The Spanish competitor is slated to make his Laver Cup debut on Friday night, scheduled no earlier than 9:30 p.m. local time, partnering with Jakub Mensik in a doubles match against the pairing of Alexander Bublik and Taylor Fritz.
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