Ljubicic Compares Current Player to Federer, Praises ATP Star

Ivan Ljubicic Sees Roger Federer‘s echoes in Carlos Alcaraz

By Archyde Staff

July 17, 2025

Ivan Ljubicic, the former coach of Roger Federer, has drawn striking parallels between the game of the Swiss legend and that of young tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz.

Ljubicic, who guided Federer from 2016 to 2022, believes Alcaraz possesses a style that evokes memories of Federer’s unique approach on the court.

“absolutely. They have this style of play where you never know what will happen,” Ljubicic stated. He noted that both players are consistently
searching for winners and exhibit immense creativity.

While acknowledging significant differences, Ljubicic finds Alcaraz to be the player who most reminds him of Federer.He elaborated that Federer’s effectiveness was a byproduct of his game, not a conscious pursuit of showmanship.

Ljubicic feels that alcaraz, at times, seems driven by pure enjoyment, playing for himself and the spectators alike. This inherent flair is a key element uniting the two players in his eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is Ivan Ljubicic? Ivan Ljubicic is a former professional tennis player and coach, notably coaching Roger Federer.
• Who is Carlos alcaraz? Carlos Alcaraz is a highly-ranked professional tennis player from Spain, known for his dynamic and entertaining style of play.
• What similarities does Ljubicic see between Federer and Alcaraz? Ljubicic highlights their shared creative style, constant search for winners, and an element of unpredictability in their games.

What are your thoughts on this comparison? Share your opinions in the comments below and let us know if you see the Federer-Alcaraz connection!

What specific attributes identified by Ivan Ljubicic suggest Carlos Alcaraz shares similarities with Roger Federer’s playing style?

Ivan Ljubicic’s Bold Comparison: Who Shares Federer’s DNA?

Former world No. 3 and current coach to Taylor fritz, Ivan Ljubicic, recently sparked conversation within the tennis world by drawing parallels between a current ATP star and the legendary Roger Federer. While stopping short of naming a direct successor, Ljubicic highlighted specific attributes in a rising player that remind him of Federer’s unique game and charisma. This analysis delves into Ljubicic’s comments, identifying the player in question – Carlos Alcaraz – and exploring the specific similarities that prompted the comparison.We’ll also examine Alcaraz’s current form,his potential trajectory,and the challenges he faces in living up to the Federer legacy. Key terms include: Carlos Alcaraz, Roger Federer, Ivan Ljubicic, ATP Rankings, Tennis News, Next Gen ATP.

The Alcaraz-Federer Connection: What Ljubicic noted

Ljubicic, known for his insightful tennis analysis, pinpointed several key areas where Alcaraz echoes Federer’s playing style. These aren’t simply about raw statistics, but rather the feel of the game.

Variety and Shot Selection: Federer was renowned for his incredibly diverse game – a blend of power, finesse, and unexpected shot choices. Ljubicic observed that Alcaraz possesses a similar ability to change pace and spin, keeping opponents constantly guessing. This is a crucial element in modern professional tennis.

Aggressive Net Play: While many players have become baseline specialists, both Federer and Alcaraz demonstrate a willingness and skill in approaching the net. Alcaraz’s volleying technique, though still developing, shows flashes of Federer’s instinctive touch.

Court Coverage & Athleticism: Federer, despite not being known for explosive speed, possessed extraordinary court coverage and anticipation. Alcaraz takes this to another level with his incredible athleticism and ability to retrieve seemingly impossible shots. This athleticism in tennis is a defining characteristic.

Charisma and court Presence: Beyond the technical aspects, ljubicic emphasized the intangible quality of charisma. Federer captivated audiences with his grace and sportsmanship. Alcaraz,with his infectious energy and engaging personality,is quickly becoming a fan favorite.

Alcaraz’s Current Form and Recent Achievements (2025 Season)

As of July 18, 2025, Carlos Alcaraz holds the No. 1 ATP Ranking. His 2025 season has been marked by:

1. Australian Open Victory: Alcaraz secured his second Grand Slam title at the australian Open, defeating Jannik Sinner in a thrilling five-set final.
2. Monte Carlo Masters Triumph: He successfully defended his title at the Monte Carlo Masters, showcasing his dominance on clay.
3. Wimbledon semifinal Run: A strong showing at Wimbledon, reaching the semifinals before being upset by a resurgent Alexander Zverev.
4. Consistent Performance: Alcaraz has maintained a remarkably consistent level throughout the year,reaching the quarterfinals or better in all tournaments he’s entered.

These results solidify his position as the leading force in men’s tennis and justify the comparisons to Federer. Tennis results 2025 clearly demonstrate Alcaraz’s dominance.

Federer’s Legacy: A High Bar to Clear

Comparing any player to Roger Federer is a daunting task. Federer’s impact on the sport extends far beyond his 20 Grand Slam titles. He redefined elegance and sportsmanship, inspiring a generation of players and fans.

Grand Slam Count: Federer’s 20 Grand Slam titles remain a benchmark for success. Alcaraz, with two titles to his name, has a long way to go to match that achievement.

Longevity: Federer enjoyed an exceptionally long and prosperous career, remaining competitive at the highest level well into his late 30s.Alcaraz’s longevity remains to be seen.

Cultural impact: Federer transcended the sport, becoming a global icon. Alcaraz is building his own brand, but replicating Federer’s cultural impact will be a critically important challenge. Roger Federer’s impact on tennis is undeniable.

Challenges and Future Trajectory for Alcaraz

Despite the immense praise, Alcaraz faces several challenges as he continues his career:

Maintaining Consistency: The physical and mental demands of professional tennis are relentless.maintaining a consistently high level of performance will be crucial for Alcaraz’s long-term success.

Dealing with Pressure: As the no. 1 player and the subject of constant media attention, Alcaraz will need to learn to manage the pressure and expectations.

Rivalries: The emergence of strong rivals, such as Jannik Sinner and holger Rune, will test Alcaraz’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges. ATP rivalries are key to the sport’s narrative.

* Injury Prevention: Staying healthy is paramount. Alcaraz has already dealt with minor injuries, and preventing more serious setbacks will be essential.

Looking ahead, Alcaraz has the potential to become one of the greatest players of all time. His talent, athleticism, and charisma are undeniable. However