Carlos Alcaraz not planning to ‘take over’ from Rafael Nadal, wants to make ‘own history’

Carlos Alcaraz says he is not planning to “take over” from Rafael Nadal and intends to create his “own history”.

His incredible success at such a young age has drawn comparisons with fellow Spaniard Nadal, who like Alcaraz won his first Grand Slam at the age of 19.

But even though Alcaraz looks set to carry the torch for Spanish tennis when Nadal, 36, does retire, he plans to do things his own way.

“As I’ve always said on more than one occasion, I don’t want to take over from anyone,” he said.

“I feel lucky to have so many people supporting me behind me, transmitting that positive energy from the first game.

“Speaking of this week, it’s been two years that Rafa hasn’t been there, I’ve been lucky, or let’s say I won’t win the title. But as I’ve always said, I’ve always wanted to play against the best.

“It is a pity that we have not been able to enjoy Rafa these last two years. Let’s hope he continues playing for a long time and we can enjoy his tennis, but obviously we’re not here to take over from anyone, but to build our own history.”

Only five players in ATP history have won more titles as a teenager than Alcaraz.

He will have the chance to add a 10th at the Madrid Open, where he will be the top seed and strong favourite in the absence of Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

He is also the defending champion after beating Nadal and Djokovic on his way to victory last year.

“We always go to each tournament thinking that we can win, trying to do our best,” he said.

“Not winning Madrid would not be a failure for me, it depends on the level I have shown and the matches.

“All the players are very good, they can all win the title and they can beat me. For me, failure would depend on the level I show and the way I play.”

Slightly further on the horizon for Alcaraz is the French Open.

Last year he was beaten in the quarter-finals by Alexander Zverev in four sets.

“Roland Garros is a clear short-term goal,” he said.

“It is a tournament that I really want to win, but right now we are focused on Madrid and Rome.” Alcaraz concluded.

Alcaraz has received a bye in the first round in Madrid and will open against either Ugo Humbert or Emil Ruusuvuori.

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