“I Tip My Hat to Both” – Billie Jean King Applauds Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz’s Quality Tennis at Indian Wells 2022

Rafael Nadal’s incredible run since the beginning of this year came to an end in the finals of the Indian Wells Masters by Taylor Fritz. But, even while grappling with a pectoral injury, Nadal showed the world, why he is one of the greatest fighters in the sport, even today.

Most matches that Nadal plays are greatly anticipated by his fans all across the world. But one which got the attention of both the fans and supporters and the tennis fraternity was his semi-final clash against fellow Spaniard, Carlos Alcaraz.

Billie Jean King applauds Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz’s match

Former champion, the legendary Billie Jean King also commented on how intense the semi-final match between the two Spaniards was. Applauding the performance of both the players, She expressed her thoughts on twitter. She wrote,“They battled for 3+ hours in tough conditions, & I tip my hat to both. Nadal loves & respects our sport & Carlos is a future No 1,” she said.

DIVE DEEPER: ‘You Are Amazing’- Rafael Nadal Compliments Carlos Alcaraz After Raging Indian Wells Semi-Finals

Carlos Alcaraz has been tremendous on the tour over the past six to eight months. His stature on the tour has increased in leaps and bounds since last year’s US Open when he defeated Stefanos Tsistsipas in five thrilling sets. He is one of the most complete players among the emerging names on the tour. He does not have a visible weakness in his game and is already a star in the making. No wonder various experts have touted him as ‘the next big thing in tennis’.

Playing a 21 time Grand Slam champion who is definitely one of the greatest tennis players to have ever lived can be quite intimidating. But Alcaraz did not bow down to the pressure. Even though the scoreline indicates differently, the match was extremely tight fought. Nadal had to dig deep to overcome Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the Californian desert.

WATCH THIS STORY: Hilarious Meaning of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Serena Williams on Urban Dictionary!

Despite not dropping a set en route to his semifinal clash, the 18-year-old could not prevail against his ‘idol’in Indian Wells in a battle across generations. Nonetheless, Alcaraz can draw huge satisfaction and inspiration from his performance against the 21-time Grand Slam champion.