Carlos Alcaraz played Rafael Nadal twice, and twice, he was the first player to leave the court; however, he was eager to play him for the third time, and his wish will come true.
The young Spaniard turned 19 on Thursday, and he gave himself the perfect birthday present. He outperformed Cameron Norrie in his third-round match at the 2022 Madrid Open to earn the right to challenge Nadal for the third time.
They say the third time's the charm, and Alcaraz is certainly hoping it will be. They have played twice so far, with Nadal getting the win each time, but the teenager is not discouraged ahead of their meeting at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Madrid.
"I lost twice against him and I wanted to play against him the third time. I think it's going to be different from last year [in Madrid] and the last match that we played [in Indian Wells]. I'm excited to play against Rafa here in Madrid in front of the Spanish crowd. It's going to be a great day and a great match."
Nadal graciously said that Alcaraz was the favorite in the match because he was younger, fitter, and playing better in recent months. Factually, it's correct. However, Alcaraz played it down once asked about it.
"Rafa is the best ever on clay. Even if he says I’m the favourite tomorrow, he’s the five-time champion so he must be the favourite. I’m the new one, the player who shouldn't feel pressure for competing against one of the all-time greats."
Realistically speaking, this will be his best chance to take down Nadal, as the Spaniard is coming off of a long injury break with very little preparation and a three-hour match the day before. Asked how he could defeat Nadal, Alcaraz kept it close to the vest.
"Honestly, I don't know. I always say that he has 1,000 lives. He dies and he survives, in every tough match for him. I think if I play a pretty good game, I'll have chances to win."
Alcaraz also touched upon the fans who embraced him, as well as they did Nadal, for which he was grateful. He said that he hoped to get a small group of people to cheer him on when he clashes with the legend of his country.
"I’m earning my own path - I am very happy for the way the public is cheering me on. But Rafa is Rafa. The people love me more every day, but Rafa is much more famous. I hope a little section of the stadium supports me tomorrow. But I’m ready to know that most of the crowd will be behind him."
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