Spanish tennis prodigy Carlos Alcaraz has heaped praise on Rafael Nadal’s historic achievements on clay, calling it the greatest accomplishment in the history of sports. Speaking at the 2025 Barcelona Open, Alcaraz didn’t hold back in expressing just how remarkable Nadal’s record truly is.
“What Rafa has done on clay is the greatest in sports. Not just in tennis,” Alcaraz said. “Winning 14 Roland Garros, 11 times in Monte Carlo, eight in a row—that’s incredible. Only people who aren’t from this world are capable of doing it.”
When asked if he still considered it possible to win 14 titles at Roland Garros—a goal he hadn’t ruled out earlier in his career—Alcaraz offered a firm and respectful response.
“Two years ago, you didn’t want to give up the possibility of winning 14 titles at Roland Garros. Do you see that as impossible now?” the journalist asked.
“Yes,” Alcaraz said without hesitation. “It’s impossible. Rafa’s records, especially at Roland Garros, are on another level. It’s something we’re unlikely to ever see again.”
Nadal’s domination at the French Open is unmatched: 14 titles, just three career losses in the tournament, and nearly two decades of supremacy on the clay of Paris. His consistency and physical endurance have set a benchmark that may remain untouched for generations.
A tribute from the Future of Spanish Tennis
Though Alcaraz is widely regarded as the heir to Nadal’s throne, the 20-year-old continues to show nothing but humility and admiration for the legend. Despite already capturing two Grand Slam titles and rising to the top ranks of the ATP Tour, Alcaraz knows that Nadal’s legacy is something truly extraordinary.
“I want to win and make my own history,” Alcaraz said. “But what Rafa has done, especially on clay—he’s simply not from this world.”
As Nadal’s storied career begins to wind down, his influence continues to shine through in players like Alcaraz—those inspired by a legend, yet wise enough to recognize the rarity of his greatness.
