(Mexico) Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, world No.2 behind the unbeatable Novak Djokovic, assured Tuesday that he would “prevent” the Serbian from dominating the 2024 season, promising a “very intense” year.

“Djokovic said he was ready to win the four Grand Slams and Olympic gold, but we are here to stop him,” the player said in Mexico, where he is due to play an exhibition match on Wednesday.

Winner of six tournaments in 2023, including Wimbledon, where he defeated Djokovic in the final, in 2023, Alcaraz had a more disappointing second part of the season, failing to win another tournament after his victory on the London turf.

“The first part of my season was spectacular, but after Wimbledon I had a bit of a negative period,” admitted Alcaraz. “But I think it’s normal and I need to learn from these situations.”

And the Spaniard suggested to those who criticize him “to prepare their television, and to follow (it) in 2024, because it is going to be a year full of energy and good times, we are going to train and fight for may the year be at the same level or even better than this year”.

Often promised to dominate world tennis since his arrival on the world circuit, Alcaraz, 20 years old and already won 12 ATP titles, assured that he had not changed.

“I’m still the same boy, being famous is not going to change my personality or the man I am, even with all the expectations of people who compare me to Federer or Rafa (Nadal, editor’s note). I try to put those comments aside and focus on my own journey,” he said.

Alcaraz must face American Tommy Paul, 26 years old and world number 13, in an exhibition match on Wednesday in a 42,000-seat venue. Before their meeting, the ex-N. 1 in the world, the Dane Caroline Wozniacki, today 238th, will face the Greek Maria Sakkari (N.9).