“Not a Good Thing for Him”: Coach Distances Carlos Alcaraz From Rafael Nadal Comparison

Tennis star Rafael Nadal is one of the most beloved sporting personalities in the world. After being involved with tennis for close to two decades, the Spanish veteran has motivated a number of youngsters to develop a liking for the sport. Over the years, he has become a true representative of the game. 

Recently, upcoming talent from Spain, teenager Carlos Alcaraz was compared to the legend, Rafael Nadal. However, his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero was not happy with these comparisons as he felt it would cause unnecessary pressure for the 18-year-old player. 

Revealing his disapproval for the same, Ferrero stated, “Everything that is said about Carlos as Rafa’s replacement, I think it is not a good thing for him. It is an added pressure that is put on him. It does not serve much. I like to think that we have another player who has a lot of potential. His game and his way of facing game by game, face to face with the players, makes me trust that it will be very good.”

(Quotes translated using Google translate)

Carlos Alcaraz should not be compared with Rafael Nadal

Ferrero spoke highly of Rafa and his desire to still compete for the biggest honors in the game. At the same time, he maintained that Carlos has not come to replace the Spanish legend but to leave his own mark and establish his own identity with time. 

The former World No. 1 added, “For me, it is a generational duel. Rafa is surviving, he is playing at a very high level, fighting for Grand Slams. I would not dare to speak of relief. It is true that Carlos is the boy who comes from behind, not to replace but to choose to great things and to play great games.”

Later today, Alcaraz is expected to take on the defending French Open champion. Although they have come across each other in the past, it will be their first competitive match against each other. All in all, it will be the experience of a lifetime for the youngster. 

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