Rafael Nadal welcomed comparisons with compatriot Carlos Alcaraz stating that it was a ‘nice coincidence’ that Spain found another brilliant athlete in the form of the young Spaniard. He also mentioned how difficult it was to find two of the best players in a sport’s history from the same country.
Alcaraz has expressed his love for Nadal on many occasions. He has called the 22-time Major champion his favorite player. The two also teamed up for doubles at the 2024 Paris Olympics taking the tennis world by storm. The team was nicknamed ‘Nadalcaraz’ and they made it to the quarterfinals.
The 21-year-old is often compared to the 38-year-old as they belong to the same country and also due to the similarities in their career trajectory and playstyle. Alcaraz is also widely touted to become the flagbearer of Spanish tennis after the 14-time Roland Garros champion’s retirement by the fans.
Nadal recently appeared on the Spanish talk show ‘El Hormiguero’ where he opined on the comparisons with Alcaraz. He said the comparisons didn’t put pressure on the World No. 3 and was glad that Spanish tennis has found him with the 38-year-old so close to hanging up his racket. He also said how difficult it is for a country to produce two of the best players in a sport’s history.
Rafael Nadal will next be seen in action at the 2024 Laver Cup, Carlos Alcaraz to join him
While announcing his withdrawal, on his social media, from the 2024 US Open, Rafael Nadal said that he wasn’t in a condition where he could give his 100%. He thanked the fans later and then confirmed his next tournament.
The Spaniard announced that he will next be seen in action at the 2024 Laver Cup in Berlin.
The Spaniard will be joined by Carlos Alcaraz, his protege Casper Ruud, Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas to represent Team Europe.
The 2024 Laver Cup is set to begin on September 20.
“I don’t think the comparison hurts Alcaraz. He’s good enough. He will go his own way and it’s a nice coincidence that, after my career, someone like Carlos comes along. It’s difficult in the same country to have two players among the best in history.”
“Thanks to all my US Fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of lucks to all for the always amazing US Open! My next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin.”
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Source: Los Angeles Times (edited)
