Carlos Alcaraz is grateful for King Felipe of Spain's support. After losing to Italy's Jannik Sinner in Sunday's gentlemen's singles final, the Spanish tennis player thanked His Majesty for flying to the UK to watch him play.
"I don't want to leave without saying, I just have to say thank you, you know, to the King of Spain [for] coming here for support. For me, it's just an honor having you in the stands supporting, flying here to watch the final. So I'm just really grateful. And thank you very much for coming," the 22 year old said after the match, while Felipe smiled and clapped.
His Majesty watched the match on July 13 from the Royal Box on Centre Court. Also in the Royal Box on July 13 were the Prince and Princess of Wales, along with their older son Prince George and daughter Princess Charlotte, in addition to a number of Hollywood stars like Nicole Kidman, Matthew McConaughey, John Lithgow and Keira Knightley. During the final at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Casa de S.M. el Rey shared a photo of the Spanish monarch chatting with Prince William, Catherine, George and Charlotte.
The King of Spain has previously supported Carlos at Wimbledon. The King of Spain was at the tournament in 2023 when Carlos won his first Wimbledon title. After his victory that year, Carlos admitted that it was “really, really special” to play in front of royalty, including the King.
He also told the King, “Felipe, I’m really proud, you know, that you are here supporting me. Well, I played in front of you, just twice. Twice that I won. I hope you are coming more,” which prompted Felipe and the crowd to laugh.
While King Felipe was not present at last year's match when Carlos claimed victory once again, Casa de S.M. el Rey celebrated the tennis star's win, writing on X (translated to English): "Congratulations @carlosalcaraz for returning to glory on the grass at #Wimbledon2024. Another great milestone in your career. A perfect blend of courage and talent, that's your tennis. 👏🏻."
After the match in 2024, the Princess of Wales told Carlos that her daughter Charlotte had been "cheering you on."