Carlos Alcaraz returns to a tennis court this week for the first time since the US Open, playing for Team Europe at the Laver Cup.

Alcaraz has shone at the Laver Cup in recent times, with the Spanish superstar boasting a 6-2 record from his eight matches played. He’s claimed 15 points for his side across singles and doubles, and is now looking to add to that tally at The O2 in London.

Before the tournament gets underway, however, he has come under the microscope of Rick Macci, who previously coached WTA legend Serena Williams. He has suggested there is a common mistake about the ATP superstar, who he believes can become even greater in the years to come.

Serena Williams’ ex-coach points out mistake people make with Carlos Alcaraz

In his typically unique style, Macci posted on X: “People chirping about Carlos being too nice and needs to be more ruthless or whatever. This is so far off as they do not understand the makeup of greatness comes in many shapes and sizes. The Spanish magician and one of his magical superpowers is humility blended in with his ability. You do not change a gift like that.

“He has seven majors, breaks more records than The Beatles and Rolling Stones combined, been number one and is the biggest draw in the sport. I think he has the secret sauce and is the boss and has the right wire to fly even higher.”

Aged just 23, Alcaraz boasts a tennis career that most others can only dream of. Along with his seven Grand Slam titles, he has climbed as high as number one in the world rankings, while he has also completed the career Grand Slam by winning all four majors.

Carlos Alcaraz’s Grand Slam finals

Carlos Alcaraz labelled ‘super smart’ to skip Davis Cup

As Macci has rightfully pointed out, the youngster is also extremely humble. Alcaraz has been labelled the best loser on tour for his grace in defeat, which he also shows when he comes out on top, which is more often than not.

But he has certainly put himself first since the US Open, opting against representing Spain in the Davis Cup qualifiers. It’s a decision that has drawn praise from Macci, who wrote on X: “Carlos super smart to play Laver Cup and not Davis Cup. No need to flip the script from hard to clay just to play. Remember for 139 days he was on the shelf to get better and feel like his old self.

“The Spanish magician and his team are the only ones who know what is best and sometimes it is more rest before another quick test because barring injury Carlos will someday be right there in Slams with the best of the best.”

Spain didn’t exactly struggle despite not being able to call upon Alcaraz, thrashing Chile 4-0 to reach the Davis Cup Finals. They will meet Austria in the quarterfinals in November, with the winner playing either Great Britain or Germany in the semifinals.