Rafael Nadal has offered a calm and generous response to the idea that Carlos Alcaraz could one day surpass his Grand Slam achievements.
The discussion comes at a time when Alcaraz continues to build a resume that places him in historically rare territory for a player of his age.
Nadal, long defined by his dominance and longevity, showed no hint of defensiveness when asked about the possibility.
Rafael Nadal welcomes Carlos Alcaraz, chasing his Grand Slam legacy
Nadal addressed the topic during an interview with 9 News Australia, where he was asked about Alcaraz potentially eclipsing his record of becoming the youngest ever to achieve a career Grand Slam.
“Good for me. For me, my career is over, and I’m not the kind of guy that gonna live the rest of my life thinking ‘Oh wow somebody’s gonna break a record,’ and worry about that.
“I am very proud of what I achieved, and if somebody is doing better than me today, very welcome,” the 22-time Grand Slam winner said.
The comments reflected Nadal’s long-standing perspective that achievements gain value when future generations push standards even higher.
Rather than framing records as possessions, Nadal positioned them as milestones meant to be challenged.
Carlos Alcaraz is closing in on the youngest career Grand Slam record
The specific record in focus is becoming the youngest player in men’s tennis history to complete a career Grand Slam.
A career Grand Slam requires winning at least one singles title at the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open.
Nadal completed that feat at the age of 24, cementing his place among the most complete players the sport has ever seen.
Alcaraz, who is currently 22, already holds titles at the US Open, Wimbledon, and Roland Garros. The Australian Open remains the final piece.
If Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic in the 2026 Australian Open final and lifts the trophy, he would complete the career Grand Slam at a younger age than Nadal.
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