Carlos Alcaraz has expressed his disappointment at missing out on the “unique opportunity” to learn more from Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup. Both Alcaraz and Nadal were scheduled to compete for Team Europe in Berlin this weekend, but Nadal had to withdraw due to persistent fitness issues.
Many fans were eager to see the two Spaniards reunite for doubles play, following their thrilling partnership at the Paris 2024 Games just two months ago. However, with Nadal unable to compete, four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz admits he’ll miss the chance to gain further insight from his idol.
Speaking to *Marca*, Alcaraz shared: “Rafa is one of the greatest in the history of our sport. He’s my idol; I grew up watching his matches as a kid. I’ve tried to learn as much as possible from him when we’ve spent time together. I’ll definitely miss him in Berlin, as it would have been a unique opportunity to keep learning from him.”
He added, “It would have been really special to team up again here in Berlin. When I saw that Rafa was set to join, I was so excited to share the locker room with him again. At the Laver Cup, we are much closer as a team, and it would have been an unforgettable experience. I’ll miss him, and I hope he’s back on the court soon when he’s feeling better. I hope we can meet again at a tournament soon.”
As for when Nadal will next compete, it’s unclear, though there’s hope that he might represent Spain at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga later this year. Spain’s captain, David Ferrer, hinted that Nadal’s participation is a possibility, and Alcaraz is hopeful it will happen.
“I heard David say that if Rafa was there, he’d give his all. I hope I’m fit enough to join the team in Malaga too. It’s something I’m really excited about, and I hope Rafa can be there as well,” Alcaraz said.
Alcaraz will begin his Laver Cup campaign on Friday, though not in singles. The reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion will team up with Alexander Zverev for a doubles match against Team World’s Ben Shelton and Taylor Fritz. Earlier in the day, Casper Ruud and Grigor Dimitrov will also take the court for Team Europe.
