Carlos Alcaraz wrote a heartfelt letter to Rafael Nadal after defeating him in their last singles encounter on Thursday, October 17.
Nadal will retire from tennis following the Davis Cup.
Carlos Alcaraz gave an emotional letter to Rafael Nadal after defeating the former World No.1 in the Six Kings Slam exhibition tournament semifinals on Thursday, October 17. Alcaraz defeated Nadal in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3, advancing to the final and facing Jannik Sinner.
After the match, Alcaraz used Instagram to convey a message to Nadal. The Spaniard said it was an honor to play the former World No.1 for the last time and praised him for being an inspiration to future generations.
Alcaraz concluded the letter by adding he will see him very soon in Malaga, where the Davis Cup finals will be held. The tournament will be Nadal’s farewell outing after announcing his retirement earlier this month.
“It was an honor to play against Rafa one final time! Thank you again for your legacy and for inspiring all of us! Alcaraz remarked, “See you soon in Malaga, but this time we’ll be wearing Spanish colors.”
How did Alcaraz vs Nadal unfold?
Despite losing 6-3, 6-3, Rafael Nadal received a standing ovation from the Riyadh audience as he exited the court. The setback sets up a highly anticipated third-place play-off against Novak Djokovic on Saturday, reigniting one of sports’ most intense rivalries.
Carlos Alcaraz wasted no time establishing his dominance, breaking Nadal to love in the first game. While Nadal found his feet and kept the first set tight, Alcaraz took a decisive lead, winning a long game with four deuces on Nadal’s serve to seal the opener.
Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, started strong in the second set, holding serve to love. However, Alcaraz swiftly took control, breaking Nadal with a spectacular forehand down the line. Though Nadal showed moments of brilliance, notably a stunning backhand at the net, Alcaraz kept his position and secured a dominant victory in just 78 minutes.
