VIENNA/STARNBERG, October 26, 2026
Since his last appearance in Vienna in 2021, Carlos Alcaraz has added seven Grand Slam titles to his impressive collection. His participation at the 2026 Erste Bank Open became possible following the postponement of the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia. Despite his remarkable achievements over the past five years, the Spaniard insists that he remains the same person he was when he first competed in the Austrian capital.
“Since my first appearance here, I have achieved some great things, and I am really proud of that. Nevertheless, I am still the same guy, with the same ambitions and the same dreams,” Alcaraz said.
Vienna Provides Opportunity To Regain Match Rhythm
The 23-year-old from Murcia explained that his last-minute decision to compete at the Erste Bank Open was motivated not only by an available week in his schedule but also by his desire to gain more match practice.
“I haven’t played many tournaments this year. I need competitions, tournaments and match rhythm to get back to my best level,” Alcaraz explained.
His team also considered Vienna an ideal opportunity to gain additional match experience and collect valuable ATP Ranking points before the end of the season. However, the competition promises to be particularly strong.
“The draw is extremely tough, and many great players are coming here. That’s why I felt this week could be very important and a good opportunity for me to keep improving.”
Davis Cup: Alcaraz Set To Face Austria In Bologna
On Monday, it was also confirmed that Alcaraz has been selected for Spain’s Davis Cup team. At the Final 8 in Bologna, the Spaniards will face Austria, setting up an intriguing encounter.
The world-class player is looking forward to the challenge with plenty of motivation.
“The Davis Cup is very important to me. We have a great team this year and a good chance. I will be there and try to help the team. Then we will see how the tie against Austria goes,” Alcaraz said.
Praise For Rival Alexander Zverev
At his previous appearance in Vienna in 2021, Alcaraz reached the semi-finals, where he lost to eventual champion Alexander Zverev. A potential rematch between the two players this year would only be possible in the final.
Alcaraz also had words of praise for the German, who is set to take over the world number one position in the ATP Rankings. The Spaniard believes Zverev thoroughly deserves the achievement.
“In tennis, it’s not just about stepping onto the court and playing your best tennis on one particular day. It’s also about the consistency you show throughout the entire year. He has won two Grand Slam titles this year. I’m happy for him because I know how hard he has worked and how long he has been pursuing this goal. He absolutely deserves it.”
Alcaraz And Zverev Set For Tuesday Debuts
Alcaraz will make his first appearance at the 2026 Erste Bank Open on Tuesday. In the opening round, he will face Karen Khachanov in the second match of the day, scheduled after 1:30 pm. The Russian reached the final in Vienna in 2024.
Austrian hopeful Jurij Rodionov could await Alcaraz in the round of 16, provided he comes through his opening match against Georgia’s Nikoloz Basilashvili on Wednesday.
Top seed Alexander Zverev will also be in action on Tuesday. Not before 5:30 pm, the German is scheduled to take on Spanish qualifier Martin Landaluce in his first-round encounter at the Wiener Stadthalle.
