Carlos Alcaraz responds candidly to the Novak Djokovic fan response.
When Carlos Alcaraz takes on Novak Djokovic, he is thrilled to have the support of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer supporters.
It’s “an extra motivation and a joy,” according to the rising Spaniard, as the two-time
The major champion also said that although he is flattered to be likened to the “Big Three,” he wants to be “100% Carlos Alcaraz” and doesn’t want to imitate any particular player.
When the world No. 2 plays against Djokovic, he expressed gratitude for the extra support he receives from supporters of the Serbian’s main opponents.
“I’m a guy who watches social media a lot, and there are always fans cheering me on every time I play Djokovic,” he remarked.
Having a significant portion, if not all, of Rafa or Federer’s fan base behind me when I play against them or any other player gives me extra drive and happiness. It’s amazing.”
Speaking in front of an exhibition tournament in Mexico, Alcaraz talked about his competition with Djokovic and the analogies drawn between him and the illustrious triumvirate.
Despite the impact of legendary tennis players on his game, the Spaniard was eager to showcase his own distinct style to the public.
“I believe that I am Carlos Alcaraz,” he declared. We have no intention of imitating any of the three’s styles.”
He continued: “Obviously, for someone like Djokovic to say that I have the best of the three best players in the history of our sport, for me it is wonderful, but really,
inside, I want to think that I am not any combination of any player. I want to feel that I am 100% Carlos Alcaraz.”
Alcaraz has often been compared to tennis greats since his rise in the sport, with Djokovic praising the Spaniard highly after losing to him in a thrilling Wimbledon final in July.
Djokovic said: “I think people have been talking in the past 12 months or so about his game consisting of certain elements from Roger, Rafa, and myself.
I would agree with that. I think he’s got basically the best of all three worlds.
“I haven’t played a player like him ever, to be honest. Roger and Rafa have their own obvious strengths and weaknesses.
Carlos is a very complete player. Amazing adapting capabilities that I think are a key for longevity and for a successful career on all surfaces.”
The Spaniard also spoke about his experiences playing against Djokovic and Nadal, and his desire to play against Federer.
