Carlos Alcaraz aspires to be able to partner up with Rafael Nadal at the Olympics.
With Spain authorized to send four qualifying players to the games, it appears like Alcaraz will fulfill his desire.
While Nadal is not currently qualified, if he is deemed fit, he will almost probably be given a wildcard entrance into Olympic events.
Three Spanish players are now ranked among the top 56 players in the world and would be qualified to compete in the Olympics if they began next week. Alcaraz is the current world number two, followed by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (World No. 33) and Pedro Martinez (World No. 45).
If the existing quo is maintained, it will make things easier for Spain because they will not have to remove a player from their submissions to make room for Nadal.
Alcaraz is overjoyed at the possibility of collaborating with his idol during the Olympic Games, seeing it as an excellent opportunity to learn from the greatest.
He also believes that doubles tennis may be beneficial to a singles great like himself, admitting that he still has plenty to learn about the game.
“I haven’t been able to play as much doubles as I would have liked,” Alcaraz told Punto de Break.
“I enjoy playing volleys with a partner who is also a friend. It’s something that excites me, especially with Rafa. I am overjoyed to be able to play with my idol; it is a wonderful opportunity for me to savor that moment. I never imagined I’d be able to play alongside Rafa in the Games.”
Alcaraz intends to sit beneath Nadal’s learning tree because he believes the record-breaking great will have insights into the sport that no one else can provide.
“I think he’s going to teach me how to deal with everything,” Alcaraz stated.
“I am the young lad who needs to mature as both a player and a person. Having him on my side for doubles and training… These are my first games, and there are many new stuff. It would be my ambition to receive a medal beside him.”#
Alcaraz returns to the ATP Tour this week after a brief hiatus following his French Open title win.
He emphasized the need of taking breaks from the game to stay fresh.
“I spent a few days on vacation with some pals. I had a nice day enjoying Roland Garros; I also need these things.
“It is apparent that each player is unique, but in order to perform at my best, I must keep my personal life distinct from tennis.
“Having my days off, being able to relax, spending time with family and friends, putting the racket behind.
“It’s an ideal time for me.
“The issue is that tennis players have limited time.
“We’ve already concluded the three or four days and need to prepare elsewhere.
“We have to make the most of the time we have.”