Carlos Alcaraz: "I'm not obsessed with being the best in the world."

Spanish tennis superstar Carlos Alcaraz is well versed in the comparisons of him to his sport’s Big Three – Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic.

At 21, he’s already accomplished enough to earn them: four Grand Slam titles, a stint as world No.1, and global superstardom.

But Alcaraz, having already reached the pinnacle of his sport, approaches tennis with an attitude that's all his own.

“I’m not obsessed with being the best in the world,” he told GQ España. “I was number one a few years ago, and I was happy. Now I’m number three, and I’m just as happy - enjoying the journey, the sport, and life.”

That philosophy is at the heart of his new Netflix documentary, My Way, which debuts later this month.

The series explores, in part, the contrast between Alcaraz and his coach and mentor Juan Carlos Ferrero, who sees the sacrifices required by high level sport in stark contrast to Alcaraz’s more relaxed outlook.

Still, the Spaniard isn’t shy about his ambitions.

“I’ve always said I’d like to be the greatest in history,” he said. “But that’s a big statement, not an obsession.”

Despite his success, Alcaraz still lives at home and surrounds himself with friends and family. If it seems contrary to a global superstar, well, that’s just fine with him.

“Part of the key to success is figuring out what works for you, even if it’s different from everyone else," he said.

Another key? Keeping things fun.

“Pressure keeps you alive and means you’re fighting for something important,” he said.

And for Alcaraz, that means fighting for both a legacy alongside the Big Three and also a life he’s proud to have enjoyed.

“I always say I’d love to be remembered as an inspiration to young kids, and as someone who had fun doing what he loved, with a smile on his face.”

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