Rafael Nadal On Carlos Alcaraz: 'All The Ingredients To Be Amazing Champion'

Rafael Nadal knows what it takes to become an all-time great. So when he touts someone for success, it’s best to sit up and take notice.

The legendary Spaniard weathered tricky conditions to edge his young compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in a semi-final thriller at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells on Saturday. It was nonetheless another stunning showing from 2021 Intesa Sanpaolo Next Gen ATP Finals champion Alcaraz, whose performances continue to belie his tender age.

At his post-match press conference, Nadal highlighted the versatility of the 18-year-old’s game as something that particularly stands out.

“I think he has all the shots,” said Nadal after extending his unbeaten record this year to 20-0. “He can play very aggressive. He can play defensive because he's super fast. He can defend amazing balls. Of course, when he's playing aggressive, it is difficult to stop him because the quality of his ball is very high.

“I think he has all the ingredients to become an amazing champion. I didn't come to the match more nervous because I was playing a youngster. I treated it like I was playing against a top-eight player. In terms of level, that was my feeling.”

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