Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz clinched his fourth major title last Sunday at Wimbledon, and just a day later, compatriot Rafael Nadal offered high praise for the 21-year-old's burgeoning career.
Nadal, a 22-time major champion, expressed his belief that Alcaraz has the potential to become one of the greatest players in tennis history. Speaking after a successful first-round doubles match at the Nordea Open in Bastad alongside Casper Ruud, Nadal emphasised Alcaraz's immense talent and the unpredictability of future success.
"This is not the first time I've praised Alcaraz," Nadal remarked. The two Spaniards are slated to team up for doubles at the upcoming Paris Olympics.
Expanding on his admiration for the two-time Wimbledon champion, Nadal highlighted Alcaraz's exceptional tennis prowess, suggesting that injuries permitting, Alcaraz is at the forefront alongside Jannik Sinner. Nadal noted the rarity of players who could challenge Alcaraz on the Tour, underscoring his status as a favourite in any tournament, regardless of surface.
Reflecting on his own career, Nadal drew comparisons to his dominance on clay, Federer's on grass, and the shared competitiveness on hard courts with Federer and Djokovic. He acknowledged Alcaraz's current stature as a consistent favourite across all surfaces, a distinction few players achieve.
In a nostalgic moment, Nadal recalled returning to the Bastad event for the first time since 2005 when he triumphed as a 19-year-old. Now 38, Nadal mused on the changes in perspective over the years, from carefree times with fellow players to a deeper appreciation of the surroundings and the local culture.
"Now, at 38, you become more interested in things," Nadal observed, expressing newfound curiosity in exploring the area and its scenic beauty. His return to Bastad prompts reflections on his evolution from a young, carefree player to a seasoned professional with over 1,075 tour-level victories.
Nadal's journey continues with his upcoming singles match against wildcard Leo Borg, son of tennis legend Bjorn Borg, marking their first-ever encounter. As Nadal navigates this phase of his career, his admiration for Alcaraz's burgeoning talent stands as a testament to the future of Spanish tennis.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
