Carlos Alcaraz grew up looking up to Rafael Nadal, but now, Nadal feels his young friend doesn’t need much advice anymore. The tennis world is feeling a bit blue since Nadal shared that he’s retiring after the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga next month. Spain, in particular, is preparing to bid farewell to its greatest tennis legend ever.
The sadness in Spain is mixed with hope because they have already found their next big star. Alcaraz has won four Grand Slam titles and was once the world No. 1 at just 21 years old! His amazing skills and hard work mean he could win many more titles unless injuries slow him down. Fans love his exciting playstyle with incredible shots .
Alcaraz recently faced his hero Nadal for what might be the last time before Nadal’s retirement at the Six Kings Slam event in Saudi Arabia, where other big names like Djokovic and Sinner also played. Despite Nadal’s struggles with injuries over the years, Alcaraz managed to beat him and set up a final match against Jannik Sinner. Many fans believe this rivalry between Alcaraz and Sinner will be legendary.
| Name | Age | Points | Stats 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| es Carlos Alcaraz | 21 | 68,791 | 25 - 5 |
Passing of the Torch
Even though Nadal is Alcaraz’s idol and they might team up for doubles at the Davis Cup Finals, Nadal thinks Alcaraz doesn’t need much guidance now. He mentioned how Alcaraz has a great team and family supporting him: “I think he doesn’t need much advice now…he’s going to be going very well with what he has.” Yet, he remains open if Alcaraz ever wants to reach out: “But of course, I will be ready anytime he wants to call me.”
Nadal recalled seeing young Alcaraz practice during the 2021 Australian Open for the first time. People had been telling him about this talented newcomer: “[I heard] he’s winning, he’s special…you saw things that you don’t see in others.” Indeed, it seems like those predictions were spot on as fans watch him grow even stronger each year.
Fans are excited about how good Alcaraz can become as he continues improving his game over time. Meanwhile, on the same day as Sinner vs. Alcaraz match-up happens again soon enough; there’s another thrilling face-off—Nadal versus Djokovic! Let’s hope these matches bring us unforgettable moments.
What do you think about all these changes happening in tennis?
