Carlos Alcaraz gives a shout-out to F1 champion Fernando Alonso at Miami Open, hypes up excitement around possible 33rd race win

By Gautham Krishna

Modified Mar 29, 2023 04:40 GMT

Carlos Alcaraz gives a shout-out to Fernando Alonso during post-match camera sign-off

It is well known that Carlos Alcaraz is a big fan of Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso. And the teenager recently added to the excitement that is buzzing around a possible 33rd race win for the veteran driver at this weekend's Australian GP.

Alcaraz registered his ninth straight win on tour as he brushed off Tommy Paul in straight sets (6-4, 6-4) in the Round of 16 at the Miami Open on Tuesday (March 28).

After securing the win, Alcaraz was quick to grab a marker for the traditional post-match camera lens sign-off. Instead of a typical autograph, the Spaniard scribbled the words: "33 --> soon."

While several were left bemused by the message, Spanish fans quickly decoded the words as nothing but a shout-out to superstar Fernando Alonso. The F1 driver has bagged 32 race wins over the past two decades, racing for numerous teams.

With two consecutive podium finishes to begin the season, fans expect the 41-year-old to make it 33 race wins before too long.

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Meanwhile, reflecting on his win over Paul during the post-match press conference, Alcaraz said he was happy with his performance and hopes to replicate it in the quarterfinals.

"I played a really great match and I hope to play the same level in the quarter-final," he said. "I moved well and defended well and I counter-attacked and I think if I play at that same level I will have a lot of chances to get through."

The teenager also lauded the crowd for the energy they gave him and said he felt at home in Miami.

"I feel at home here. It is easy to play here in Miami with all the energy I receive every day. I am enjoying myself and I think that is the key to playing at such a high level every match. I hope to keep going," he added.