Roger Federer’s Former Coach Says Carlos Alcaraz Is the Biggest Thing That Has Happened to Tennis Since Rafael Nadal

Carlos Alcaraz has stunned one and all with his stupendous displays on the tennis court, this season. At just 19, the Spanish teen sensation is a force to reckon with on the men’s circuit. He began the year outside the top-30 of the ATP rankings. However, the man of the hour then enjoyed a steep rise owing to his brilliant performances this year. As a result, Alcaraz is now the sixth-best player in the world in men’s singles as per the latest ATP rankings.

Further, his fantastic performances at tournaments have caught the eyes of people from across the tennis fraternity. Many tennis pundits have praised his rise. Additionally, Roger Federer’s former coach, Paul Annacone, too lauded Alcaraz’s hard work recently.

Paul Annacone on Carlos Alcaraz

During the ‘Inside-In’ podcast, Annacone talked about Alcaraz’s rise and his chances at the French Open 2022.

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He said, “Yeah, it’s amazing. We haven’t seen a meteoric rise like this really since Rafa and it’s been so long and we’re not sure if we’d see it again. But this kid is something special. He’s done such an amazing job and you mentioned beating Rafa and Novak back-to-back, that just doesn’t happen. So, he’s comfortable. Can he do it 3 out of the five sets for seven matches? Talent-wise and skill-wise, absolutely.”

The 59-YO legendary coach (who also trained Sloane Stephens and Pete Sampras) further added, “But for the teenager, having never been into that environment before, very challenging. He’s got a great environment with Juan Carlos Ferrero coaching him. They seem to have a terrific bond. But over two weeks at a major, I think it’s kind of a different landscape for him to process but I don’t see any reason why with that level of skill he can’t do it.” 

Alcaraz all set for the French Open 2022

The Spanish youngster has begun his preparations for the clay-court Grand slam tournament in full swing. During a recent interview, he said, “Physically I feel very well. I am mentally strong. I am a strong player and in the end that is what it takes to win a Grand Slam.”

Certainly, the young gun holds a physical advantage over the more aging players, but it’ll be interesting to see whether he can show the much-needed mental edge too.

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Alcaraz will be brimming with confidence after already having won the Barcelona Open and the Madrid Open on the clay court. Can he win his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros this season? Let us know your views in the comments below.