Rafael Nadal retires: Carlos Alcaraz says winning Davis Cup for team-mate a huge motivation
Carlos Alcaraz says winning the Davis Cup for Rafael Nadal is a “huge motivation” and will mark the “most special” tournament of his career.
22-time Grand Slam champion Nadal will Retired from tennis After representing Spain in next week’s Davis Cup final in Malaga.
Spain will face the Netherlands in Tuesday’s quarter-finals as they look to add to their six titles – four of which Nadal has been involved in.
“This is probably the most special tournament I’ve ever played in my career because of what’s going on, because of the environment,” said 21-year-old Alcaraz, ranked third in the world.
“The Davis Cup has always been a tournament I wanted to win one day. I’m keen to represent Spain.
“Having Rafa next to me, knowing this is his last game, makes it even more special.”
Alcaraz makes his Davis Cup debut in 2022, three years after Spain’s most recent title.
He partnered with Nadal, who is 17 years his senior, in doubles at this summer’s Paris Olympics, but was eliminated in the quarterfinals.
Nadal will retire as the second most successful men’s singles player of all time, behind long-time rival Novak Djokovic.
Alcaraz told the ATP website: “No player deserves more to end his incredible career with a title and I know how special the Davis Cup is to him. It will be a tough challenge, But winning the title for Rafa is a huge motivation.”
He added: “Rafa’s farewell is more important, at least for me. The Davis Cup happens every year. Rafa’s farewell, to a legend of the sport, unfortunately only happens once. For me personally For my part, I am happy to say goodbye to Rafa by his side.”
