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Nadal Alcaraz Madrid 2021
ATP Tennis Players, Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, Tennis News

‘Like his idol Rafa’ – Djokovic compares Alcaraz to Nadal after ‘historic’ season


Novak Djokovic is the latest player to draw the comparison between Spaniards Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal, after Alcaraz’ Next Gen ATP Finals win.

Following an impressive breakthrough year which saw Alcaraz conclude his season by winning the Next Gen ATP Finals, the Spaniard is now ranked 32nd in the ATP world rankings.

The promising Spaniard has claimed some notable victories in recent months, beating World number four Stefanos Tsitsipas, two-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray twice, World number seven Matteo Berrettini, as well as Italian prospect Jannik Sinner.

These tournament performances and accomplished victories have earned Alcaraz a number of comparisons to tennis greats, including seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander and youngest-ever men’s major champion Michael Chang. As well as being compared multiple times to his childhood idol and compatriot Rafael Nadal.

Alcaraz has previously said “he’s (Nadal) my idol because of his character, attitude and the passion he has for tennis.”

In a recent interview, World number one Djokovic compared Alcaraz breaking into the ATP top 30 to Rafael Nadal doing something similar at a young age.

“What Alcaraz has achieved this year is historic. Like his idol Rafa [Nadal], he is so young, but already a Top 30 player.

“He’s impressive and he’s showing great maturity for his age, on and off the court.” Djokovic believes.

Nadal and Alcaraz last met at the Madrid Open in May, a match Alcaraz described as “the best birthday present” and “a dream come true”. Although, it was the 20-time Grand Slam champion Nadal who emerged victorious over the 18 year old, winning in straight sets.

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.