Rafael Nadal shares what he thought about Carlos Alcaraz when they first practiced in 2021

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Rafael Nadal has developed a special relationship with Carlos Alcaraz which began when they first practiced in 2021.

Their final singles clash at the Six Kings Slam exhibition event, somewhat illustrated a passing of the torch moment with Alcaraz on his way to becoming a legend and Nadal, an established icon, who is retiring next month.

Since Nadal won his final major at the 2022 French Open, Alcaraz won his first five months later at the US Open, he now owns four major championships.

The World number two is well on his way to becoming an all-time great and he had a great example to follow in Rafael Nadal.

Rafael Nadal shares his opinion on Carlos Alcaraz when they practiced in 2021

Nadal’s relationship and tennis journey with Carlos Alcaraz did not truly begin until 2021.

In an interview on Sky Sports, the 38-year-old opened up on when he first practiced with the French Open and Wimbledon champion, and it did not take him long to see what made him stand out above the rest.

“Of course when you are in the world of tennis when someone is coming from the same country as you and he’s winning, he’s special,” he said.

“People were telling me that someone very good is coming but of course I did not have the chance to watch him play until I had the chance to practice with him in Australia in 2021.

“Even if he was very young you see things in him that you don’t see in others. So, yeah, you can see now!”

Did Rafael Nadal beat Carlos Alcaraz at the Six Kings Slam?

Alcaraz promised he would play to his maximum against Nadal at the Six Kings Slam and that is exactly what transpired.

He forced Nadal back with some piercing forehands and each time he was able to be aggressive he took the chance.

Alcaraz claimed a 6-3, 6-3 victory and shared a warm embrace with the 22-time Grand Slam champion after the match.

“It was a pleasure. Carlos was too good,” Nadal said post-match. “He’s been playing fantastic the last few years, getting better and better. I tried. I haven’t been competitive since a couple months ago.

“It was a good performance. It wasn’t enough to play against an animal like him. It was a positive moment for me. I’m very happy.”