The Arizona Daily Wildcat caught up with men’s tennis players Claudio Christen and Bruno Alcala, winners of last weekend’s doubles title at the Racquet Club Collegiate Invitational in Midland, Texas, to talk about their recent win, their strong points and Family Weekend.

Wildcat: What are your initial reactions to winning the doubles title?

Christen: It’s very exciting. It was a great tournament that gave us some confidence.

Alcala: Actually, I was really happy because it’s the first tournament I’ve won in a while. It was a great feeling. After we won, we both were really happy.

W: How has the success throughout this fall’s tournament season helped the team’s confidence?

C: We all have been playing well. I played pretty well at the All-Americans. We can beat anybody we want if we have a good day. That helps a lot, especially with the young guys.

A: Everyone’s having success so far, and that’s what we stress will continue success throughout the next semester. It’s good for us having success in the fall.

W: What are your favorite parts of playing doubles play?

C: Serving well and rushing the net.

A: It’s really intense, but at the same time, you need to be really quick on the net. It’s just fun to have somebody else right next to you and have fun at the same time.

W: What’s the strongest point in your game?

C: Probably my serve and forehand.

A: I would say, if I’m mentally set, I think that’s a key point for me. My mind has to be set and be mentally tough.

W: How about the weakest point?

C: I had a bad weekend last weekend – a little weak in my head mentally. I’ll work on that for the next few weeks.

A: I would say the same thing – when my mind is not there, I can get down on myself and lose to anybody. When my mind is ready to play, I can beat anybody. I would say my mind.

W: If you could play one tennis player, who would it be and why?

C: Probably Roger Federer. I’ve looked up to him all my life. He’s my idol and the one guy I’d love to play with.

A: Roger Federer, since he’s going to be the greatest tennis player ever.

W: How fast is your serve?

C: I haven’t measured it for a long time, but probably around 125 mph.

A: Probably around 125-130 mph.

W: What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten before practice?

C: At All-American tournament (two weekends ago), we got Quiznos turkey sandwich(es), and I felt really sick.

A: A lot of milk, since it makes me dizzy and I don’t know what’s going on for 20 minutes.

W: Are mom and dad coming to Tucson for Family Weekend?

C: No, but they’re going to be here for spring break.

A: No, they can’t make it, but they’re coming for Senior Day next semester for tennis.

W: What’s one thing you don’t want the parents to see in your room?

C: There’s nothing bad in my room, I guess. I can’t tell you.

A: Probably how dirty it is now. My mom is really anal and a clean freak.

as told to Bryan Roy