Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal share a close friendship, with the young Spaniard often expressing his admiration for his more experienced compatriot and colleague on the ATP Tour.
Nadal and Alcaraz are quite familiar with each other and have spoken highly of one another before. The younger has mentioned Nadal a few times as a player he admires, while Nadal praised the rising star as well.
Recently, Alcaraz, who comes from El Palmar, was in the spotlight at the Autonomous Community's Sports Gala, held in the El Batel Auditorium. He was voted the best athlete in Murcia for 2021, sharing the honor with motorcycle rider Pedro Acosta and athlete Mohamed Katir.
In the meantime, Nadal is busy recovering from an injury which he sustained at the Italian Open in Rome. While the injury won’t keep Nadal away from the upcoming Roland Garros, it was unfortunate to see for many of his fans, including Alcaraz.
The youngster spoke about Nadal, admitting that it was sad for him to see Nadal hurting and not being able to compete, as he knows how much Nadal loves competing.
"I don't like to see Rafa suffering with the sport he loves, and it hurts me too. I hope and wish that he recovers and that he will be competitive."
Alcaraz then turned his attention towards his season and his goals, admitting that he's quite happy with the way his season has progressed so far.
"I didn't imagine being third of the year and fighting to be first at this point, although one of my goals was to be up at the end of the season. I am very happy."
"It motivates me to be given as one of the favorites to win in Roland Garros, and more than pressure, it is a stimulus to give everything. I am feeling better and better, and I feel energetic and eager and knowing that I have my options."