Rafael Nadal outlined his respect for Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner but encouraged the media not to compare them to him or his greatest rivals.
The era of Nadal, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic dominating tennis and playing each other when at or near their peaks is considered by most to be the greatest the sport has ever seen.
Other great players won Grand Slams during that time, such as Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka, but Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic undoubtedly established themselves as the three dominant forces.
The incredible rivalry that trio had meant there was widespread sadness among tennis fans worldwide when Federer retired just over two years ago at the Laver Cup. He played doubles with Nadal in his farewell match in London.
Those emotions will be repeated when Nadal retires from professional tennis after the Davis Cup Finals in November. What could be his final match against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals is reselling for crazy prices above €30,000.
Federer and Nadal retiring and Djokovic being 37 years old means new rivalries being formed are essential for tennis. It might not be long until Djokovic retires, as well, after he admitted that a big part of him has already left the sport after his rival's retirement announcements.
Although there are many great players on the ATP Tour, many hope Alcaraz and Sinner's rivalry can become as epic as the ones Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic had with each other.
Alcaraz and Sinner have already played several terrific matches, including five-set battles at the US Open and French Open and their recent China Open final, in which Alcaraz outlasted the Italian after over three hours.
However, Nadal does not think it is wise to compare Alcaraz and Sinner to the so-called Big Three. Speaking to DAZN ahead of the Six Kings Slam, the 22-time Grand Slam champion believes the next generation of players should be allowed to build their own rivalries.
"I think it’s not a moment to compare eras. Because Novak is still there. Roger and myself left.. but that’s part of the sports career of everyone. Now it’s a new generation coming."
"We need to let them create their own rivalries and their own story. They don’t need the comparisons with us. Let’s see at the end of their careers."
Rather than focusing on how they match up to him, Federer, and Djokovic, Nadal preferred to focus on what Alcaraz and Sinner are currently achieving and praised them for doing great things.
“They’re doing great. They’re very young. They’re already achieving amazing things, winning Grand Slams and Masters 1000s.. creating great numbers. These two guys especially, Carlos and Jannik, are making a special thing. I wish them all the very best to keep growing. They’re already huge stars."
"I’m sure if they’re able to stay free of injuries, they’re gonna build an amazing career. We need to wait, but of course. This year already two grand slams for each of them. Number 1 and number 2 in the world."
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