Roger Federer backs Carlos Alcaraz’s belief that the Olympics is as important for tennis players as Grand Slam success – a view which Rafael Nadal doesn’t agree with.
Nadal and Alcaraz are set to form a formidable partnership in the men’s tennis doubles at the Paris Olympics. Alcaraz, the 21-year-old sensation who secured victories at both the French Open and Wimbledon this year, will join forces with 22-time Grand Slam champion Nadal in representing Spain.
The Paris Games could mark one of the last major tournament appearances for the 38-year-old, who has already won a singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. But even before his first taste of Olympics glory in Beijing, Nadal admitted that Grand Slam titles take precedence.
A little bit less,” Nadal remarked when ranking the importance of the Olympics. “For us, a Grand Slam is different. Grand Slams are special. Olympics are important too but after a grand slam.”
Alcaraz, who was just five years old when Nadal made that comment, disagrees with his esteemed countryman. With three Grand Slam titles already under his belt, the prodigy from Murcia is keen to add an Olympic gold to his impressive collection.
Asked whether he would prefer to win Wimbledon or the Olympics, Alcaraz responded: “It is difficult to decide, but I would say the Games.
They are every four years and you represent your country and all Spaniards. When I come back here I’ll have flashbacks. It can be very nice, my first Games 40 days after my first Roland Garros. I would choose an Olympic gold.”
Leave a Reply