Alcaraz responded to feeling tired while playing an exhibition match: Playing exhibitions is much easier!

Alcaraz has vigorously justified his and other players’ involvement in exhibition matches, even though he has repeatedly voiced concerns about the demanding tennis calendar. This world number one has been questioned many times for criticizing the schedule while still opting to participate in several exhibitions.

At present, Alcaraz is taking part in the 2025 Six Kings Tournament in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a high-stakes exhibition event founded in 2024. On the eve of his semifinal clash with Fritz, the Spanish player said in an interview that exhibition matches are far less mentally draining than ATP Tour events.

He stated, “Obviously, I understand the criticism, but sometimes people don’t really know us or what we think. When I see many complaining about why we defend playing exhibitions, I just don’t get it, because as I said, compared to official tournaments that last two or even two and a half weeks, exhibitions are not mentally taxing at all. They are actually much easier.”

In the past, Alcaraz has frequently criticized the tennis schedule. His most notable remark came at the 2024 Laver Cup, where he dramatically said, “Maybe the ATP Tour is somehow trying to ‘wear us out.’”

Fritz defeated Zverev in straight sets in the first round of the Six Kings Tournament and advanced to the semifinals to face Alcaraz. Recently, he also spoke about the tennis calendar and players’ participation in exhibition matches.

The American player believes the congested schedule makes it difficult for players to decide which exhibitions to attend. Fritz said in an interview, “You get to see the world’s top players facing each other. I think the only downside is that the schedule is already so packed, so we have to choose between these very exciting events and the busy tour. That’s the hard part. But when the schedule allows, it’s really great to participate in such tournaments.”

The Riyadh Six Kings Tournament brings together six of the world’s top tennis stars: Alcaraz, Sinner, Djokovic, Zverev, Tsitsipas (replacing the injured Draper), and Fritz. The quarterfinals are complete, and the semifinals are scheduled for October 16.

Alcaraz will face Fritz in the semifinals, with Fritz having defeated German player Zverev 6-3, 6-4 in the first round; the other semifinal features defending champion Sinner against 24-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic.

In a pre-match interview, Alcaraz shared his feelings about returning to compete in Riyadh. He hopes to claim the title in the tournament’s second edition. If he wins, he will earn a $4.5 million winner’s prize plus a $1.5 million appearance fee. Additionally, this exhibition will serve as excellent preparation for the year-end finals, where he aims to win the championship.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)