Rafael Nadal sent me a message to wish me luck for the final, I appreciate it: Carlos Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz was recently crowned the 2023 Wimbledon champion. In his latest interview, the Spaniard expressed gratitude for having received a 'good luck' message from his idol Rafael Nadal before the title clash against Novak Djokovic.
Alcaraz exceeded the expectations of the tennis world as he outplayed the Serbian icon to lift his second Grand Slam title. The 20-year-old triumphed over the 23-time Major winner in a five-set thriller, wrapping up the clash 1-6, 7-6(6), 6-1, 3-6, 6-4.
Following his victory, the Spaniard was lauded by decorated personalities from all walks of life. However, there was one in particular that notably stood out for young Carlos Alcaraz.
In a recent interview with MARCA, Alcaraz expressed his appreciation for Rafael Nadal, who wished him "best of luck" before he walked onto Center Court for the final on Sunday, July 16.
"Yes, yes, he sent me a message. First he sent it to me to wish me luck for the final and I appreciate it," said Carlos Alcaraz.
He added that Nadal also congratulated him after he bagged his second Major at the All-England Club. The World No. 1 said that a message from his childhood idol was a noteworthy moment in his life that he admired deeply.
"That someone like him, an idol from my childhood and who continues to be one, sends you strength and luck for the most important moment of your life, is something to admire," he said.
Carlos Alcaraz all set to play Hopman Cup after Wimbledon victory
Rest will take a backseat for Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz as he prepares for the upcoming Hopman Cup after a tiring two-week Grand Slam campaign.
Alcaraz is set to team up with WTA World No. 72 Rebeka Masarova, who has replaced the injured Paula Badosa. The two will represent Spain in France, where they will square off against Belgium.
The 20-year-old will clash against David Goffin and Masarova will face Elise Mertens in the event's opening round. In case of a tie, the two pairs will enter a mixed doubles contest to decide the winner.
These matches will take place on Friday, July 21, in Nice, France.