Playing with Rafa is a dream – Carlos Alcaraz on pairing up with veteran for Olympics

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz admitted playing with his idol Rafael Nadal is a dream come true for him. The youngster will team up with the veteran for the Men’s doubles at the upcoming Paris Olympics. 

Growing up, Alcaraz idolized Nadal and he will look to deliver the goods for Spain. While Nadal has all the experience under his belt and has won two Olympic Gold medals, in 2008 and 2016, this will be Alcaraz’s debut at the Games.

The event will be played on clay and thus Alcaraz and Nadal will enter the tournament as favorites. Nadal is a 14-time Roland Garros champion whereas Alcaraz recently won the title in 2024. The veteran also qualified for the Bastad final but lost to Nuno Borges in straight sets in the summit clash.

Alcaraz admitted they will need to prove their mettle on the court as medals aren’t won by name.

Alcaraz said in a press conference, “Playing with Rafa is a dream, but that doesn’t mean guaranteed success. Medals aren’t won by name. It will be a great experience, and we must adapt gradually.”

“I have less experience and I hope I can adapt quickly to playing doubles. I like playing it, but I’ve never been able to because of the singles. I can learn everything from Rafa – that way of competing, of fighting and that humilty off the court.”

Meanwhile, social media is abuzz with the duo name of Nadalcraz.

Commenting on the same, Alcaraz said on Eurosport, “Nadal’s name always has to come first. For me it is incredible to be able to learn from him. It is a unique experience. These first Olympics are a dream, but it makes it even more special to play doubles with your idol.”