Carlos Alcaraz's "Dream" Comes True Playing with Nadal
Alcaraz's "Dream" Comes True Playing with Nadal
Carlos Alcaraz expressed being "a bit disappointed" about being eliminated in the doubles draw alongside Rafael Nadal at the Paris 2024 Olympics but said that playing with his idol fulfilled "a dream."
"I'm a bit disappointed that we can't keep competing together, that this beautiful story has ended here," said the young Spaniard after losing to the American pair Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram 6-2, 6-4.
"It's been a beautiful experience, unforgettable moments. My childhood dream was to play with Rafa, to learn up close from him, and it's come true. We should focus on the positives; it's been a wonderful experience," said Alcaraz, who will continue in the singles draw after defeating Russian Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-2.
Alcaraz admitted they didn't play well in doubles, which cost them in a competition where "you can't hesitate for a second." "We should have focused on ourselves, on our shots, on putting pressure on them, like we did in the last games," he noted.
The Murcian said he's happy to continue in singles, although he complained about being scheduled for the second round after finishing his doubles late.
"You have to accept things. We'll try to rest as much as possible, see if I can get some decent sleep, and tomorrow I can focus on continuing to advance and give my best. I know if I play great tennis, I have a chance to bring a medal to Spain," he assured.