Carlos Alcaraz hits the clay running to fine-tune his game for the Paris Olympics! After winning the Wimbledon title against Novak Djokovic, he is ready to turn the tables with the Serb’s arch-rival, Rafael Nadal. However, even after preparing for the big event with the King of Clay, the ‘Prince’ is quite focused on his individual goal for the big event.
The four-time Grand Slam champion recently discussed his high expectations for the Paris Olympics in a podcast, stating that he is determined to bring the gold medal back to Spain, as his individual goal. The 21-year-old tennis prodigy also said that it would be an absolute dream to play with Rafael Nadal, his hero.
He stated, “With Rafael Nadal, the doubles tournament is a dream for me, but he’s gonna be even more, especially if I win the gold medal. So I’m gonna go for it. I’m gonna, you know, do my best to do it. You know, since 2022 that I’m not playing at doubles tournament and it’s gonna be tricky for me, but yeah, I think I’m ready to do it, and hopefully, play really good tennis in singles and doubles in the Olympic games.”
On the other hand, while addressing the media last month, Carlos Alcaraz mentioned that he hadn’t expected to play doubles with Rafael Nadal but was thrilled about the opportunity. The four-time major winner showed faith in Nadal to help him adjust to the unfamiliar environment of competing in the Olympics.
Alcaraz said, “I didn’t expect to play doubles at the Olympic Games with Rafa. It is a unique moment for me but of course I am very happy about it. Let’s see how it’s going to be but it’s going to be a great time. Honestly, I feel he is going to teach me how to deal with everything.
However, at the same time, Nadal had a special message for the young Spaniard after he defeated Novak Djokovic in the final of Wimbledon 2024.
Rafael Nadal’s special congratulatory message for Alcaraz
Alcaraz became the sixth player to win Wimbledon and the French Open in the same year, and the ninth player to keep his title after winning. He became the second Spaniard to attain this feat, behind Rafael Nadal, with this achievement. Since his victory, Alcaraz has received a ton of well wishes, with Rafael Nadal leading the way.
The former Wimbledon champion posted a touching message for his fellow countryman on Instagram, along with a picture of Alcaraz. As they celebrated this important turning point for Spanish tennis, Nadal gave Alcaraz a strong hug and congrats on another outstanding moment in his career. Along with that, he wrote, “Congratulations Carlos!!! What a great moment another one. Big Hug!!!
With his thrilling triumphs at Wimbledon and Roland Garros under his belt, he now has the unique chance to seal a historic triple crown by being the first player since Rafael Nadal to win an Olympic gold medal. Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Alcaraz’s goal? Do let us know in the comment section below.
