Carlos Alcaraz reveals that the prize money lured him to the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia

Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, 21, said on Monday that the record prize money on offer at the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia earlier this month was motivation for taking part in the tournament as the world number two prepares for the Paris Masters.

Italian rival Jannik Sinner dismissed earlier claims that he took part in the exhibition event for financial rewards, stressing that he traveled to Riyadh for the sporting challenge.

However, Alcaraz admitted that the financial aspect played a role, as he earned $1.5 million in four days in mid-October.

“I love playing tennis. You know, most of the time I don’t think about the money. I just play for love or fun. But you have to be realistic. You have to think that you want to make money, you know, and that’s all“Alcaraz told reporters on Monday.

“…Arabia has the highest prize money ever, so that was a good motivation, at least for me.”

The Spaniard hasn’t had much success at the Paris Masters in recent years, with a quarter-final appearance being his best result. Alcaraz won the French Open and Wimbledon titles this year but said the season had taken its toll.

“I didn’t play good tennis here in this tournament. Probably I was tired at the end of the year, or yes, as I said last year, I had to understand that the season continues even after September” he said.

“The calendar is super tight, but also super demanding. So coming into the last tournament of the year, last year I was probably tired and didn’t play as well as I wanted, but coming this year I think I feel different.”

The Paris indoor tournament runs until November 3rd.