Why Carlos Alcaraz May Break Through As The All-Time Greatest Player
At just 19 years old last year, Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest player in history to hold the top spot in the global rankings.
At 20 years old, he has already won two Grand Slam titles. He is frequently touted to as Rafael Nadal’s heir, another Spaniard. In my opinion, he has not only met but significantly surpassed the expectations that were set for him.
In a thrilling five-set match at Wimbledon 2023, Carlos Alcaraz defeated current GOAT Novak Djokovic to win his second Grand Slam championship.
Alcaraz ushers in a new era in men’s tennis by foiling Djokovic’s bid to win his third Slam of 2023 and ending the era dominated by the Big 3 (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray).
Alcaraz is anticipated to be among the elite players guiding the men’s tennis circuit in the ensuing ten or so years as the sport enters a new age.
He approaches the game in a unique way overall. He plays the drop shots expertly, is extremely quick on his feet, is aggressive and daring to take chances with his massive groundstrokes, and can play defense when necessary. He also makes frequent trips to the goal.
The current generation of players already has several intriguing rivalries, especially between Jannik Sinner, Holger Rune, and Carlos Alcaraz.
For the past year or two, these three young guns have been producing excellent tennis, and they are all ranked in the top 10 at this time.
For many years to come, they intend to rule the game of tennis.It’s not a given, though, that this competition will lead to them becoming another Big 3. It’s just a new chapter in rivalry, and we will always hold the Big 3 in high regard.
Alcaraz appears to be the ideal blend of Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal. He possesses Federer’s net technique, Nadal’s tenacity, and Djokovic’s defense.
With characteristics shared by the greatest players of the last 20 years, Alcaraz is a formidable opponent.
Alcaraz is a special player who plays an all-court aggressive style unlike any other. Before the Big 3 turned twenty, he might be even better or on par with them. Before they were 20, the Big 3 had the following highest rankings:
Not one of the Big 3 has ever finished the year ranked higher than Carlos Alcaraz, the only player in tennis history to do so.
Furthermore, only Rafael Nadal among the Big 3 was able to raise a Grand Slam title before to turning 20.
Whether Alcaraz can equal or perhaps exceed the accomplishments of the Big 3 throughout their careers is still up for debate.
Nonetheless, he has currently demonstrated the ability to do so, and many people think he will be able to.
Carlos received nothing but positive feedback from other athletes and sports legends. What they had to say was this:
“The most thrilling tennis player to walk on a tennis court,” according to Mats Wilander.
Novak Djokovic: “People have been discussing how parts of Roger, Rafa, and my game are in his game. I would concur with it.
He essentially possesses the finest of all three worlds. He is unlike any player I have ever played with.
Petra Kvitová: “I think Carlos is great; his movements and the things he returns are lovely! That someone like him will carry on Roger and Rafa’s legacy makes me happy.
Roberto Bautista Agut: “What a sweet and modest child he is.” Since his coach has experienced the same situation as him, he is providing him with excellent guidance in that area. That everything is going so well for them makes me very happy.”
“One of the most talented players I have ever seen,” said Stefanos Tsitsipas.
“BEST 20-year-old I’ve ever seen,” said John McEnroe.
Similar worries were held for Alcaraz as they were for Rafael Nadal at the beginning of his career. The question is whether Alcaraz can continue to be physically fit for the two decades of competition he has ahead of him.
We’ve watched Nadal battle through injuries throughout the years to win Slams, so I’m not sure if Alcaraz’s body can handle it.
Carlos Alcaraz is here to stay for the time being. There is a kind, funny, and modest person behind the champion.
Alcaraz has risen to the top of the rankings at an incredible rate over the past year and a half, but he hasn’t lost sight of his objectives to be true to himself and have fun with the game.