‘Modern version of Rafael Nadal!’ – tennis greats awe-struck by Carlos Alcaraz’ Miami Open title win
A number of tennis legends, including Rafael Nadal, have all been in high praise of Carlos Alcaraz following his historic Miami Open victory, with many feeling he is a “legend in the making.”
18-year-old teenage sensation Alcaraz continued his exponential rise to prominence by winning the Miami Open, his maiden Masters 1000 event. As a result he has been propelled to 11th in the world.
In doing so, Alcaraz has become the youngest player to ever win the East Coast event and the third youngest Masters victor ever, sitting just behind Michael Chang and 21-time Grand Slam legend Nadal.
The Spanish youngster also proved himself against some of the world’s best en route to his monumental victory.
He dispatched World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas in emphatic fashion, ended defending champion Hubert Hurkacz’ ten-game tournament winning run, before then beating World number seven Casper Ruud in the final.
Following his maiden Masters 1000 victory, praise and adulation poured in from every reach of the tennis world, from current and former players alike to renowned coaches.
Although, Alcaraz’ main plaudits came from none other than Alcaraz’ childhood idol Rafael Nadal, who Tweeted “many congratulations Carlitos for your HISTORIC win in Miami! It’s the first of many more titles to come, I’m sure!”
At the Indian Wells Masters two weeks ago, Nadal again sung Alcaraz’ praises when he called his compatriot “unstoppable.”
Moreover, legendary coach Patrick Mouratoglou said “he’s like a machine. He doesn’t have a weakness. I don’t see anything that would prevent him from potentially winning a slam anytime. As soon as Roland Garros this year.”
Mouratoglou continued by drawing comparisons between Alcaraz and Nadal, “I would say Alcaraz would be the modern version of Rafa,” citing his “super” physicality and “incredible” mental resolve.
Multiple other names across the sport have also been pleasantly surprised and impressed by Alcaraz’ rise, with many feeling he could be the next great.
In his El Pais column, yet another famed coach Toni Nadal feels “his evolution in [recent] months has been meteoric. He has improved in all aspects of his game, both physically and technically. He has become a complete player.”
Continuing, speaking on Amazon Prime, Tim Henman said “it’s a huge moment for Alcaraz and a huge moment in our sport. Moving forward the sky really is the limit.”
Henman’s co-commentator and analyst Daniela Hantuchova echoed the Brit’s sentiments by saying “he is a legend in the making.”
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