In the world of professional tennis, merging players often find themselves in the spotlight, with and compared to tennis legends who have graced the courts with their enigmatic playing styles and personalities. Such is the case for Carlos Alcaraz, the rising next-gen star and a legend in the making. Alcaraz would be locking horns with none other than the legend himself, Novak Djokovic in this year’s finals of the Cincinnati Masters.
Carlos Alcaraz, the 20-year-old Spaniard, has been turning heads with his impressive performances. After securing his second Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, Alcaraz found himself under the spotlight once again as Novak Djokovic likened him to the legendary ‘Big Three’ – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Djokovic himself. Djokovic’s praise was notable, acknowledging Alcaraz’s playing style to be reminiscent of these tennis titans.
Carlos Alcaraz says he doesn’t fully agree with Djokovic’s statement that he is a mix of The Big 3:
“It’s great someone like Novak says these things about you. Someone who played against the best Nadal, against the best Federer, & says I have some things about them. It’s great… pic.twitter.com/rqF66o3Dk3
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 20, 2023
When queried about it in the post-match interview, Alcaraz expressed gratitude for Djokovic’s admiration but asserted his own identity in the world of tennis. He stated, “It’s great someone like Novak says these things about you… But I don’t totally agree because I always say I’m full Carlos Alcaraz.” Alcaraz emphasized that while he appreciates the comparison, he is determined to carve his own path.
He firmly asserted that he doesn’t align his playing style with the ‘Big Three,’ saying,”I didn’t put styles like Rafa, like Roger, like Novak. I just try to follow my own path, try to create Carlos Alcaraz.” The young player’s commitment to forging his own identity in the tennis world showcases his determination to leave a mark distinct from his predecessors. Other sporting stars have also expressed their admiration for Alcaraz.
Paulo Dybala’s “Heir” remark on Carlos Alcaraz
Beyond the tennis community, the admiration for Carlos Alcaraz’s prowess extends to the world of soccer as well. Paulo Dybala, an accomplished soccer player from the Italian club Roma and a figure in the Argentine national team, shared his thoughts on Alcaraz’s rise in an interview with Spanish magazine AS. He praised Alcaraz’s achievements, referring to him as a “phenomenon.”
Dybala recounted a conversation with Alcaraz at Wimbledon, where the young tennis player promised to send Dybala a gift upon winning the tournament, to which Dybala strongly affirmed stating that he was sure about it and would definitely accept the gift once he wins the title.
Dybala and Carlos Alcaraz ⚽️🎾 pic.twitter.com/9B33C4aJt7
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) July 7, 2023
Dybala had also drawn a parallel between Alcaraz and the ‘Big Three,’ stating, “What Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic did is not easy…Alcaraz has everything to be the ‘heir’ to the Big 3. He can do like Nadal.”
While Djokovic’s flattering comparison and Dybala’s perspective offer insights into his talent, Alcaraz’s firm stance on creating his distinct legacy emphasizes his determination to carve his own path. As he continues to captivate tennis fans, it’s clear that Carlos Alcaraz is poised to make a lasting impact that goes beyond any comparison or praise.