Rafael Nadal believes he shouldn’t be compared with Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner as he hailed the pair’s “amazing” impact on tennis.
Speaking ahead of the Six Kings Slam, the 22-time Grand Slam champion believes the next generation of players should be allowed to build their own rivalries rather than be burdened with likenesses to the ‘Big Three’.
“I think it’s not a moment to compare eras. Because Novak is still there. Roger and myself left.. but that’s part of the sports career of everyone. Now it’s a new generation coming,” Nadal told DAZN.
“We need to let them create their own rivalries and their own story. They don’t need the comparisons with us. Let’s see at the end of their careers.”
On Sinner and Alcaraz, he added: “They’re doing great. They’re very young. They’re already achieving amazing things, winning Grand Slams and Masters 1000s.. creating great numbers. These two guys especially, Carlos and Jannik, are making a special thing. I wish them all the very best to keep growing. They’re already huge stars.”
“I’m sure if they’re able to stay free of injuries, they’re gonna build an amazing career. We need to wait, but of course. This year already two grand slams for each of them. Number 1 and number 2 in the world.”
