Former world No. 1 Garbine Muguruza, a compatriot, claims that Carlos Alcaraz is more comfortable “speaking and saying what he thinks” than Rafael Nadal.
Since Alcaraz started to emerge on the scene, Nadal and he have been compared a lot, with some people pointing out a lot of parallels between the two.
The 21-year-old has also unquestionably had a stellar debut to his career, having already achieved four Grand Slam singles championships and peaked at the top of the ATP Rankings.
While everything is happening, Rafael Nadal is nearing the end of his professional career after an incredible run at the top of the game that saw him win 22 Grand Slam singles titles.
Muguruza, a Spanish player who formally ended her career this year, is in a good position to compare the two, but she did point out a significant distinction between the two.
The former French Open and Wimbledon champion claimed in an interview with Esquire that Nadal was more restrained whereas Alcaraz exuded confidence.
“There are times when we consider what we say carefully, particularly to make sure it doesn’t come back to haunt us,” Muguruza said.
But I prefer to voice my opinions. In that regard, Rafa is more reserved. I prefer Carlos because he seems younger, more self-assured, more outspoken, and willing to share his opinions.
And I think that’s something that other people value as well, not taking your words so literally.
Additionally, Muguruza thinks that Nadal’s more reserved demeanor may have contributed to her career’s extra criticism and that her style was more like to Alcaraz’s.
“I’m not sure why I’ve been called mischievous and misinterpreted. Perhaps it’s because Rafa has kept things quiet on the lads’ end.
I’ve been called a rebel, but I haven’t felt that way at all. I’ve been labeled that because I’ve shown a little more joy or rage and haven’t been so dispassionate.
“It’s evident from my face that I’m an extremely emotional person on the court.”
Alcaraz is scheduled to return to competition this week following an unexpected early withdrawal from the US Open.
After winning the French Open and Wimbledon, the third seed was among the favorites to win the tournament; but, in the second round, he fell to Botic van de Zanschulp in straight sets.
The world No. 3 seed, who fell to fourth on Monday, will play for Spain in a Davis Cup qualifier against Australia, Czechia, and France in an attempt to advance to the Finals.
Nadal, however, missed the US Open because of health issues. He will play at the Laver Cup in Berlin later this month.