Carlos Alcaraz admits he does his best to block out comparisons to his legendary compatriot Rafael Nadal. The teenager grew up watching the icon for the majority of his career, as he carved out a legacy as one of the greatest tennis players to ever pick up a racket.
His French Open record of over 100 wins, three losses and 14 titles is absolutely astronomical, and he is also the record holder for the most number of Grand Slams. He has been a pioneer for Spanish tennis and blazed a trail for the likes of Alcaraz to follow.
The 19-year-old has already begun to forge his own path however, including a breakout year that saw him capture his first major at the US Open, and become the youngest player to be the year-end number one. The trajectory of both players’ careers is constantly compared, and though inspired by Nadal’s achievements, Alcaraz turns a “deaf ear” to the comparisons with the Majorca native.
As he recovers from an abdominal injury that forced him to miss the ATP Finals, ahead of the 2023 season, Alcaraz expects it to be difficult with every player coming for his spot. “There is no point in comparing," he said. "It doesn't matter that now I am world No. 1, Rafa's entire career counts for a lot."
Alcaraz added that he hopes to achieve “at least half” of what Nadal has over his legendary career. He also said "it is a pleasure, for every tennis lover, to see Rafa on the court”.
“The season is going to be difficult because I am going to start as the favourite and there is going to be a lot of pressure on me,” he added. “But I try to keep the good part and see that all this does not go to my head. In the end, beating your idols is an incredible achievement. I try to take it normally and never forget that whatever happens in the future, I have to enjoy tennis and play at my level.”
Alcaraz will hope to be fit for the Australian Open in January, where he will aim to win a second successive Grand Slam crown. A potential opponent at Melbourne Park will be Novak Djokovic, who had his visa ban overturned and will be free to compete in the Grand Slam next year.
Following his ATP Finals victory, he expressed his gratitude at being allowed back into Australia to participate in 2023. "It’s been an amazing finish, I couldn’t ask for a better scenario," he said.
"I’m still greatly motivated and inspired to play tennis at this level and I’m so happy I’ll be able to go back to Australia and play at my most successful Grand Slam. We’ll take it from there."
