Spanish tennis icon Rafael Nadal recently extended his admiration and encouragement to his compatriot, Carlos Alcaraz, who is making his debut at the prestigious ATP Finals in Turin this week. The 18-year-old Alcaraz has enjoyed a remarkable breakthrough season in 2023, securing six titles, including a Grand Slam victory at the Wimbledon Championships and two Masters 1000 tournaments in Madrid and Indian Wells.
What makes this mentorship unique is not just the recognition of Alcaraz’s achievements, but also the striking resemblance between his style of play and attitude on the court and that of the 22-time Grand Slam champion, Nadal. Alcaraz has embraced a powerful forehand, heavy topspin, and an aggressive baseline game, mirroring Nadal’s distinctive approach to the sport. More than just playing style, Alcaraz shares the same never-give-up spirit, relentless pursuit of improvement, and deep respect for his opponents, traits that have defined Nadal’s illustrious career.
In a heartfelt Instagram video posted on November 8, Alcaraz expressed his deep admiration for his compatriot and mentor. He also revealed his ambitious goal to be counted among the greatest tennis players in history and to follow in the footsteps of his idol.
“I want to be one of the best tennis players in history. To be on the same table as the legend, Rafa. Rafa was my hero when I was young when I started playing tennis. Towards his matches, finals, lifting the best trophies in the world, I felt, for me, Rafa was my hero growing up,” Alcaraz shared.
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Nadal, who is currently ranked at No. 244 due to a prolonged injury layoff, responded to Alcaraz’s message with a warm and encouraging comment on the post. He wished the young star good luck in the year-end finals, where Alcaraz is not only the second seed but also the favorite to secure his seventh title of the season.
“Big hug and good luck in Turin 💪🏻🙌,” wrote the ever-supportive Spanish tennis legend.
As Alcaraz continues to make his mark in the tennis world, the guidance and inspiration he receives from his hero, Rafael Nadal, serve as a testament to the enduring impact of the tennis great on the next generation of players. With Nadal’s support, Alcaraz is well on his way to fulfilling his dream of becoming one of the sport’s all-time greats, making Spain proud and inspiring tennis enthusiasts around the world.
Rafael Nadal in 2023
Ranked no.244, the Spaniard played his last match on the 18th of January when he lost to world no.41 Mackenzie Mcdonald 6-4 6-4 7-5 in the 2nd round of the Australian Open (draw).
This season Rafael achieved a compiled 1-3 record.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2023
WLWLLWLWWW At the moment ranked no.2, Carlos played his last match on the 31st of October when he lost to world no.39 Roman Safiullin 6-3 6-4 in the 2nd round in Paris (draw).
During this season Carlos owns a compiled 63-10 record. Alcaraz clinched 6 titles in 2023 in Buenos Aires, Indian Wells, Barcelona, Madrid, London and Wimbledon. The Spaniard was the finalist in Rio de Janeiro and Cincinnati.
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz fought against each other 3 times. Their actual head to head record is 2-1 for Nadal. The last time they played, Carlos Alcaraz won 6-2 1-6 6-3 in the quarter in Madrid (Mutua Madrid Open) in May 2022.
In the video below you can watch the highlights.
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz |
| Embed from Getty Images |
