‘I don’t let comparisons with Rafael Nadal bother me,’ says Carlos Alcaraz
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Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz created history last week by winning his maiden ATP title in Umag, Croatia by defeating Frenchman Richard Gasquet 6-2, 6-2 in the final. The 18-year-old became youngest Spanish champion on the ATP Tour since legendary Rafael Nadal in 2004.
Interestingly, the 20-time-Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal too was 18 when he won the first of his 88 titles at Sopot, Poland in August, 2004. However, the King of clay was just eight days younger as compared to Alcaraz.
Speaking about his obvious comparisons to Nadal, the next gen star said, “I try not to think about it (comparisons with Rafael Nadal),” Alcaraz following his title win. I always say the same thing: I am focused on my own path. I’m still learning, I’m still growing, I’m still friendly with everyone, and I’m always focused on what to do.”
As most tennis fans would remember, Alcaraz also locked horns with Nadal, earlier in the year in Madrid, during the Masters 1000 event. The older statesman comfortably beat the youngster on that occasion.
‘I’m a lucky guy to learn from them[Big 3]’: Carlos Alcaraz
The Spaniard further opened up on how he idolised the Big Three- Roger Federer, Nadal and Novak Djokovic when he was younger.
“I grew up watching them winning tournaments, winning Grand Slams and I think they’re three of the best in history. For me, it’s amazing to play against them on the same circuit. I’m a lucky guy to learn from them,” the Umag champion explained.
Post his maiden title in Croatian, Alcaraz has moved up the ATP rankings to No.55. The Spaniard is the youngest tour-level champion since 18-year-old Kei Nishikori emerged victorious in Delray Beach in 2008.
During his win in Croatia last week, Alcaraz also beat clay court specialists, Filip Krajinovic and top-seeded Albert Ramos-Vinolas. Given his recent success and promise he has displayed on the tour in 2021, we can expect plenty more stunning results from the prodigiously talented kid from Spain.
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Vivek Krishnan
(767 Articles Published)