Carlos Alcaraz says what has happened to him because of Rafael Nadal that ‘really shouldn’t be the case’

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Carlos Alcaraz has continued his impressive record at the Barcelona Open after winning another match on the centre court named after Rafael Nadal.

Alcaraz beat Arthur Fils to reach the Barcelona Open final, as he extended his winning streak to nine matches after winning the Monte Carlo Masters last week.

Despite beating the Frenchman on both occasions, Alcaraz has been full of praise for Fils, who has made an impressive start to the 2025 season himself.

The Spaniard now has a chance to go for a second title in as many weeks, but has admitted to succumbing to certain pressures in recent times.

Carlos Alcaraz says what has happened because of Rafael Nadal that shouldn’t be the case

After winning the Monte Carlo Masters last week, Alcaraz admitted he had secretly been struggling away from the matchcourt.

Alcaraz is often compared to Nadal, who retired at the Davis Cup Finals last year, due to both being Spanish players that have found huge success from a young age.

After beating Fils in straight sets, Alcaraz suggested that although most of the feedback he receives is positive, he feels that he is held to an unnecessary higher expectation due to the success of 22-time Grand Slam champion, Nadal.

“We’ve had so many great athletes in Spain that we’ve become spoiled,” Alcaraz said in his post-match press conference. “If we don’t win everything is seen as a failure – the good is blown up, and the bad gets turned into a huge bubble.

“I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received, and I’ve always gotten more positive than negative. But the negative ounts for ten times more than the positive. In Spain, Rafa spoiled us – and so did the other greats – and that really shouldn’t be the case.”

Alcaraz will now look to join Nadal as one of only five players in history to win three titles at the Barcelona Open.

Carlos Alcaraz’s impressive record in ATP Finals

Alcaraz won the Barcelona Open title on Pista Rafa Nadal in 2022 and 2023, but missed the tournament last year due to a right forearm injury.

As he looks to win his third title in four years at the tournament, Alcaraz will be encouraged by his record in finals where he appears to rise to the occasion.

Alcaraz’s victory over Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo enabled him to win his 18th title, with the 21-year-old only losing five finals in his career so far.

Alcaraz will play fellow 21-year-old Holger Rune for the Barcelona Open title, with the Dane losing his last three finals on the ATP Tour.

The world number two is also likely to be encouraged by his head-to-head with Rune, having won two of their three previous meetings.