“Now in Paris Against Rafa”: Carlos Alcaraz Challenges Rafael Nadal at French Open 2021

With the French Open 2021 drawing closer, players have been training with great intensity. When it comes to Roland Garros, the biggest challenge for any player is to beat Rafael Nadal. Over the years, the 34-year-old player has dominated the scenes in Paris, winning the competition a staggering 13 times. 

Recently, Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz revealed his desire to beat the 13-time French Open champion, Rafael Nadal, in Paris. When asked about his dream win, Alcaraz said, “Now in Paris, against Rafa. I hope.” But in this sport, that is probably the toughest challenge.

Rafael Nadal go the better of Carlos Alcaraz in Madrid

There is no harm in dreaming big and it indicates the will of the youngster to do wonders in the future. Speaking of these two players, they faced each other a couple of weeks ago in Madrid. It was a dream for the teenager to play against his idol. However, Rafa gave Alcaraz a battering and beat him with ease. 

Interestingly, the match happened on the youngster’s 18th birthday and he will probably never forget the memorable experience. However, he may not have been happy with the outcome on the occasion. 

Carlos Alcaraz played at the Australian Open and made it to the second round. At the Mutua Madrid Open this year, he won a match, making him the youngest player to win a match at this event. The record was previously held by Rafa. 

Nadal has bounced back on the clay courts

Nadal competed at the Australian Open this season. After registering impressive performances in the initial rounds, he lost in the quarterfinal. During the quarterfinal, he was two sets up before losing the net three sets against Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas. 

During the clay-court events, Rafa won the Barcelona Open and the Italian Open in Rome. As the French Open draws closer, the 13-time champion will be the player to beat. As of now, he is tipped to lift the title for the 14th time in his career once Roland Garros begins on May 30.

Also Read: Why Is Dominic Thiem Facing Issues on Clay Unlike Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic?