At the Madrid Open press conference, Carlos Alcaraz praised Rafael Nadal’s immense influence on tennis. As defending champion, Alcaraz expressed admiration for Nadal’s impact and reluctance to envision the sport without him. Despite Nadal’s injury setbacks, Alcaraz aims to cherish every moment with the 22-time Grand Slam champion, recognizing his relentless dedication and competitive spirit.
NEW DELHI: Carlos Alcaraz acknowledged the immense impact Rafael Nadal has had on the sport of tennis during a press conference at the Madrid Open on Friday.
The young Spaniard, who is the defending champion at the tournament, expressed his admiration for his legendary compatriot, emphasizing the difficulty of envisioning the tennis world without Nadal’s presence.
“I don’t want to imagine it yet. Like any Rafa fan, like any tennis fan, no one wants to imagine the tour without Rafa,” said the 20-year-old Alcaraz.
Nadal, who will turn 38 in June, has been limited to only a few appearances since the beginning of 2023, primarily due to a persistent hip injury that has hindered his ability to compete consistently.
Nadal, who will turn 38 in June, has been limited to only a few appearances since the beginning of 2023, primarily due to a persistent hip injury that has hindered his ability to compete consistently.
Alcaraz further expressed his desire to cherish every moment Nadal steps on the court, recognizing the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s unwavering dedication to the sport. “Personally, I want to make the most of Rafa, every time he steps on the court, whenever he can play.”
The young prodigy also acknowledged Nadal’s relentless work ethic and competitive spirit, stating, “I know that’s what he wants, that’s what he craves, and that he works for it day in, day out to feel competitive, to be able to go out on the court and try to win.”
Looking ahead, Nadal is set to face Australia’s Alex De Minaur in the second round of the Madrid Open on Saturday. De Minaur recently defeated Nadal in the Barcelona tournament last week.
Looking ahead, Nadal is set to face Australia’s Alex De Minaur in the second round of the Madrid Open on Saturday. De Minaur recently defeated Nadal in the Barcelona tournament last week.
