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Sam Querrey predicts how many exhibitions Carlos Alcaraz will play in his career
Carlos Alcaraz has openly criticized the current tennis schedule, mentioning the heavy tournament load on players.
Despite his concerns, Alcaraz has faced some criticism for participating in several exhibition matches, both during and after the season.
For instance, he recently played against Jannik Sinner in South Korea instead of joining an ATP tournament before the Australian Open.
Reports suggest both players earned over $2 million for that match, leading former Wimbledon semifinalist Sam Querrey to comment on Alcaraz’s exhibition appearances.
On the Nothing Major Podcast, Querrey noted that Alcaraz has played more exhibitions than both Nadal and Federer, estimating that Alcaraz could play a total of 50 exhibitions throughout his career.
“Alcaraz has made a conscious effort to participate in five exhibitions a year,” Querrey said. “While Federer and Nadal typically did one, Alcaraz is aiming for five.”
Steve Johnson, a former top 30 player, echoed this, stating that Federer and Nadal often grouped their exhibitions, doing several in a week at specific locations.
Querrey added, “If Alcaraz remains in the top ranks, he will likely play 50 exhibitions in his career.”
Johnson joked, “That could mean $100 million.”
Querrey remarked, “This is an untapped business model for tennis superstars.”
Sam Querrey reveals what he has heard about Carlos Alcaraz’s exhibition fee
The main draw for players to join exhibitions lies in the financial rewards, which can rival winning a Grand Slam title.
Querrey discussed the fee Alcaraz and Sinner might demand for exhibitions, mentioning that Alcaraz has a set minimum price.
Johnson asked, “Would they turn down an offer of $1.7 million?”
Querrey replied, “Yep.”
John Isner added, “They have no other options.”
Johnson wondered if offers of around $2 million would be insufficient unless they reached $2.2 million.
Isner commented, “They probably negotiate hard.”
Querrey concluded, “I heard that Carlos has a specific number, and if it’s one dollar less, he won’t take it.”
With exhibitions taking a backseat, Alcaraz is now focused on the Australian Open.
The tournament draw will happen on January 15, with the event starting on January 18.
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