‘Carlos Alcaraz has talent and temperament to go for Big Three numbers’, says former pro

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An ecstatic Carlos Alcaraz

Carlos Alcaraz possesses the “talent and temperament” to chase records set by Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer that seem “unattainable”, believes Nicolas Pereira.

The former world No 74 highlighted the fact that none of the ‘Big Three’ were at the level Alcaraz is currently showcasing at the same stage of their careers.

Alcaraz, who turned 20 in May, has already won 12 ATP singles titles – including two Grand Slams and four ATP Masters 1000 events.

The world No 1 became the first player to beat 23-time major winner Djokovic at Wimbledon since 2017 with his five-set victory over the great Serb in the 2023 final.

The Spaniard is the defending champion at the upcoming 2023 US Open, having defeated Casper Ruud in last year’s final to claim his maiden Grand Slam title.

In an interview with Clay Tenis, Pereira discussed last month’s thrilling Wimbledon final and Alcaraz’s potential to match the achievements of Djokovic, Nadal and Federer.

“It exceeded all expectations. It was one of the best matches I’ve seen in recent years. A star was born in front of our eyes. Carlitos Alcaraz won the US Open, yes, but it is not the same in Wimbledon Centre Court against the seven-time champion and the best player at the moment, Novak Djokovic,” said Pereira.

“You have to stop and analyse the tiebreak of the second set, also that 27-minute game, which is the best we have seen on that stage. The way Alcaraz held that break, and the way he closed the match is incredible.

“If at 20 years old Alcaraz showed that mettle and that audacity in such delicate moments, then there is hope for a bright future. He has played only 10 Grand Slam tournaments and has won two. Think about it, neither Federer, nor Nadal, nor Djokovic were at his level at this point in their career.

“Alcaraz has the talent and temperament to go for those ‘Big Three’ numbers that seem unattainable. It remains to be seen how he deals with injuries. He has it all.”

The Venezuelan, an analyst for Tennis Channel, also supported Djokovic’s claim that the 20-year-old shares some qualities with each member of the ‘Big Three.’

“I agree with Djokovic, that Alcaraz combines many qualities of the Big Three. He saw them play since he was born, imagine what a good influence for a player. And I don’t think he will be the only one, I think more will come with the inspirational legacy of the Big Three,” continued Pereira.

“We must mention Juan Carlos Ferrero, a great job he has done. Many do not know that was the agent Albert Molina who 7-8 years ago took Alcaraz to him to start the project. It is incredible what we see, an impressive story.”

READ MORE: ‘Djokovic will always be the villain’ – former pro insists Serbian will never silence his critics

Carlos Alcaraz Novak Djokovic

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