- Rafael Nadal finds a fitting word to describe Carlos Alcaraz in charming joint interview
With Nadal co
nfirming he will retire from tennis after a final appearance for Spain in next month’s Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, this lucrative exhibition event in Saudi Arabia is part of his farewell tour.
And in in charming on court interview hosted by broadcaster Andrew Castle, Nadal paid the ultimate tribute to his 21-year-old compatriot.
“I tried, even though I have not been on a competitive stage for a couple of months,” Nadal told a packed crowd in Riyhad.
“It was a good performance, even if it was not enough to play against an animal like him. It was a positive match for me and I’m happy.”
Nadal received a rapturous reception from the crowd in Saudi Arabia and he thanked the fans for their support.
“I feel well supported and loved all around the world,” said Nadal.
“I’ll never have the chance to thank enough everyone enough. They helped me when I was in tough moments and positive moments and they’ve always been bringing me to the next level of energy. I feel very fortunate.
“I had a very long and successful career. The support and love around the world means I did things good of course on court but at the same time off the court. I tried to be nice to everyone all these years. I feel happy and satisfied about the love from the crowds everywhere.”
Castle went on to ask Nadal if he had any advice for Alcaraz and he added: “I think he doesn’t need much advice. He has a great team, great family. He’s gonna be doing very well with what he has. He’s learning all the time.
“When you’re in the tennis world, when someone comes from the same country as you and he’s winning, he’s special.
“People told me someone very good is coming. I didn’t have the chance to watch him until we practiced in Australia in 2021. Something like this. Even if he was very young you see things you don’t see in the others. You can see it now
