"He said he grew up idolizing Federer but he reminds in temperament much more of Rafa, playing every point for what it’s worth" - Mary Carillo on Carlos Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz has earned plaudits from many in the tennis world following his incredible exploits as a teenager.
The Spaniard has won four titles this season, including two at the Masters 1000 level, and has cracked the top 10 of the ATP rankings.
He became the first player to beat both Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic in the same clay tournament, doing so en route to the title in Madrid. His win against Alexander Zverev in the final also made him the youngest champion in the history of the Madrid Masters.
Mary Carillo, a former tennis player and now a tennis broadcaster, had a lot of praise for the 19-year-old Spaniard. Speaking to the New York Post, Carillo said Alcaraz's passion and tenacity reminded her of Rafael Nadal.
"He said he grew up idolizing Federer but he reminds in temperament much more of Rafa, playing every point for what it’s worth. Down love-40 serving, he still thinks he should win that game. He’s that guy. He plays with the joy of an 8-year-old who wants to show you he can do 100 pushups," Carillo said.
Carillo also believes that Alcaraz has a genuine shot at winning the French Open later this month despite lacking experience of playing in the Majors.
"Why not? He lacks best-of-five experience in majors but not a helluva lot else he’s without. It would be a thrill."
"Carlos Alcaraz is the fastest player I’ve ever seen" - Mary Carillo
Mary Carillo also praised Carlos Alcaraz's speed around the court, calling him the fastest player she has ever seen. Carillo marveled at not only the Spaniard's raw speed but also his footwork that aided him in moving around the court so swiftly.
"This could be recency bias because I’ve been at this a long time. I swear to God, Carlos Alcaraz is the fastest player I’ve ever seen. That’s not even hyperbole. It’s remarkable. It’s not just foot speed, it’s footwork. The way he manages the court and reacts to anything short and just gets back in onto the court. He moves so well in the corners, gets in and out of them and takes the offensive so quickly. He’s a marvel.’"
After skipping the Italian Open to heal a minor foot problem, Alcaraz will return to action next week at the French Open.
Also Check Out :- French Open 2022 Results