Carlos Alcaraz claims he is ‘Tired’ of being compared to Rafael Nadal, reveals dream Roger Federer situation
Alcaraz is done with comparisons with Nadal, as fans and experts term the teenager as the new Rafa
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World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz is not a stranger to constant comparisons. The youngster has often been delegated as one of the best players of the new generation, after the elite Big Three. Alcaraz has been extensively compared with Rafael Nadal, for their joint expertise on clay courts. Both of them also entered the Top 10 at the same age.
Alcaraz has repeatedly stated that he is fed up with compared with the 22-time Grand Slam champion. In his interview with LTA, Carlos reiterated his sentiments regarding the matter. Alcaraz has also said that he wants to be his own person and not be labeled as another player. The 19-year-old has even surpassed the Big Three in some aspects.
During the past several years, he has continued to imitate many of Nadal’s accomplishments, fueling further discussion. Alcaraz most recently won the 2023 Indian Wells title on Sunday, making him just the second teenager since Nadal in 2005 to have won at least three ATP Masters 1000 titles.
In a rapid-fire round of questions, the Spaniard was asked about the one question that irritates him the most. Alcaraz is not offended by the parallels to Nadal, but he does wish they would stop. He has explicitly stated the same on several occasions. “It’s not annoying, but I would say the comparison with Rafa,” he responded.
In contrast, when asked which tennis player would he like to be stuck with in an elevator, the US Open champion replied Roger Federer. Carlos has previously termed the Swiss player as his role model, despite Rafa being a compatriot to the youngster. He has often expressed his admiration for the retired star. Most recently, Alcaraz regained his No.1 ranking after clinching the prestigious Indian Wells title.
Carlos Alcaraz vs. Novak Djokovic: The Battle for No.1
By winning the Indian Wells championship, Alcaraz dethroned Novak Djokovic from his No.1 position. The Spaniard is merely 260 points ahead of the 35-year-old. Alcaraz’s win in Indian Wells has to extend to the Miami Open as well. Winning the Sunshine Double will help him retain his ATP ranking.
As the clay season approaches, both players will have to defend an onslaught of points to vouch for No.1. There will be a close battle between the two as they defend their points, ultimately leading up to the French Open. Alcaraz and Djokovic will have to retain their Madrid Masters and Monte Carlo Masters titles respectively to secure the top-most ranking.
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Tanisha Mohanty
(172 Articles Published)