As long as Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are playing, there’ll be no change of era – Carlos Alcaraz

 

Carlos Alcaraz has admitted that as long as Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are playing, there will be no change of era. Alcaraz lifted his maiden Wimbledon title by beating Novak Djokovic in a thrilling five-set encounter at Centre Court on Sunday.

Djokovic has been just unstoppable in the Grand Slams events in the last few years and the youngster showed he can put paid to the Serbian’s domination at the top level.

Djokovic was chasing his 24th Grand Slam title but Alcaraz was the party spoiler for the veteran. On the other hand, Rafael Nadal is currently out of action due to a hip injury and has confirmed that the 2024 season will be his last on the ATP tour.

“I don’t think so, I don’t think so because as long as Rafa and Djokovic are playing and are active there will be no change of era. In a few years, when they retire and don’t play anymore, the debate may come up again. Now it’s not the moment,” Carlos Alcaraz told Marca.

“I have won for myself and my team, not to start an era,” he added.

On the other hand, Novak Djokovic admitted in the post-match press conference he has never played a player like Carlos Alcaraz in his long career. Djokovic showered praise on Alcaraz, stating the youngster has got the best of Big 3 – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and his (Djokovic) game.

“I haven’t played a player like him ever, to be honest. Roger and Rafa have their own obviously strengths and weaknesses. Carlos is very complete player,” he said in his post-match press conference.

Alcaraz feels it is a huge compliment for him as Djokovic has played against some of the best players to have graced the sport, including Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

“That it is amazing, crazy, for him to say it, who has played against tennis legends and has played epic matches with Nadal, with Federer and with other players. For him to say that he had not faced someone like me is a great compliment and that obviously makes me want to keep working and keep improving,” Alcaraz said.

Alcaraz will now take part in the Hopman Cup for Spain.