Richard Gasquet is almost twice as old as Carlos Alcaraz, and the veteran will try to use his experience in their first-round match at the 2024 Australian Open.
The Frenchman's career has been a pretty fascinating one, from being one of the most talented players and challenging Rafael Nadal in juniors to competing on the ATP Tour even in 2024 when he's 37. It's been a wild ride, but he still has plenty to give to the sport.
Gasquet practiced with Rafael Nadal ahead of this new season, and now he's about to face a player who many describe as the new Nadal. If you ask Alcaraz, he'll tell you that he is not the next Nadal, or "next anyone" which is true.
They're different players, but he should occupy his role when the Spanish legend retires. Carrying Spanish tennis will firmly fall on his shoulders, but he's proven capable. As a two-time Grand Slam champion, the 20-year-old has proven himself capable of that, and part of that will be winning Grand Slams.
Head-to-head:
Alcaraz and Gasquet have played one match before, and it's actually one that Alcaraz will remember for the rest of his life. It was his maiden ATP Final in Umag in 2021, a decisive win for the Spaniard 6-2 6-2. He'll never forget that, even though he's added several trophies since then.
This event might be another one, but he didn't play any official preparation event before this, something people called into question. Former player and fellow Spaniard Alex Corretja took it as a sign of confidence. He might be right, but let's judge that in two weeks.
As far as preparation goes, he did play some tennis leading up to this event. It was an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic in Riyadh, and it was a win. Although Gasquet is old school and has played some matches already, he couldn't record any significant results, resulting in his fall from the Top 100. His record in Melbourne isn't the greatest, with the fourth round being his best result.
Prediction:
When it comes to Alcaraz, he's by far the better fit on these courts. They play fast, so he can utilize his power to do a lot of damage. He's had some solid outings, though he never advanced past the third round in Melbourne. He'll likely change it this year, as this is a matchup he should win easily.
Prediction: Carlos Alcaraz to win in three sets.
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