My Influences: When Carlos Alcaraz plays, Henrique Rocha watches | ATP Tour

Next Gen Influences

My Influences: When Alcaraz plays, Rocha watches

Read more about the 20-year-old's idols

November 26, 2024

When asked which former champion of the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF comes to mind, Henrique Rocha does not hesitate. His response is quick and enthusiastic. Carlos Alcaraz, 2021 winner.

The Portuguese talent, who is only 20 years old, shines as he talks about the Spanish player. Alcaraz's energizing style of play, highlighted by his ferocious forehand and boundless power, has attracted tennis fans around the world, including Rocha. The honor of World No. 3 at 21 is clear, and fuels Rocha's ambitions.

The rising star is hoping to chart a similar path to Alcaraz, starting at this year's Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF. Currently ranked 11th in the PIF ATP Live Race To Jeddah, Rocha is fighting to defend his place in this prestigious event with strong momentum in the final week of the season.

In the latest feature of our Next Gen 'My Influences' series, Rocha sat down with ATPTour.com to share his thoughts on Alcaraz's influence, the special bond he shares with his brother, and much more.

Which former NextGen champion are you most involved with?
I would say maybe Alcaraz. I think I play better on clay courts as well. I have a very good forehand which I think is the most powerful weapon in the Alcaraz game. So I'll say maybe he is.

Do you still remember the first time you met Alcaraz or watched him?
I have watched him many times. For example, this year at Roland Garros, he was in the final match, and in the semi-final, he was playing great, great tennis. And I mean he's one of the two or three best players in the world right now. You are so young. So, make big measurements. He is always fun to watch.

I watched Sinner's last game five years ago on Next Gen and last year, I also watched a bit of Medjedovic against Fils in the final. I find it fun in a different way, because we're all used to six games and the advantage and everything. So I think it's kind of fun to get a slightly different score.

How motivated are you by the success of others your age?
Fils and Shang won ATP Tour titles, Michelsen and Mensik reached the final.
I think we all know each other. I have had contact with everyone. Two years ago, I played Phils in doubles. I think we have a lot of connections. I know them all. And I have practiced or played with them. So I think everyone has a good vibe and healthy competition. We are all young and at the Next Gen level, you should already have a certain level if you are 20 or 21 years old. So that means we will probably achieve good things in the future. That's what I believe in, that's what I work for.

How inspiring is it to see the success of former Next Gen players?
Alcaraz and Sinner were too early. So when they were young they already won everything. But everyone has their own way and I think the most important thing is to keep working hard and you will achieve what your desires and what you want to be. So, they did their way and I will do mine for sure.

Who were some of your idols on the court when you were growing up?
I looked hard at Roger. He was my idol. But in Portugal, I can say that Joao Sousa always had this mentality of working hard and he was very competitive, very competitive. That's normal for Portuguese guys. And I always appreciate him a lot because he had all that strength, that suffering, that work, and I really admire that about him. I try to follow in his footsteps. Now I am also very close to Nuno Borges. It helps me a lot to be close to these guys. They are already at the top or very close to the top and I want to be there one day.

How supportive was your family?
My parents always support me but I will say even my brother, he was always by my side since I was 10 years old. He always pushes me hard. Because he always knew that I could be a good player. I have a lot to improve and you are always by my side and support me. He is one of my inspirations and always tries to look after me.