Carlos Alcaraz cites pressure as key challenge amid Sinner's doping ban

Carlos Alcaraz expressed that the pressure to overtake Jannik Sinner, currently serving a three-month doping ban, has negatively affected his performance this season. Alcaraz, ranked third, has only secured one title this year and trails Sinner by over 3,600 points in the rankings. Acknowledging the expectations placed on him, he stated that this pressure has 'killed' him in some way. As he prepares for the clay season at the Monte Carlo Masters, Alcaraz has decided to approach the upcoming tournaments without the burden of trying to become number one. He emphasized the importance of focusing on his game rather than the ranking, recognizing that he is unlikely to close the gap with Sinner. The Spaniard is set to face either Fabio Fognini or Francisco Cerundolo in his opening match after receiving a first-round bye.