Carlos Alcaraz eagerly anticipates his Olympic debut alongside Rafael Nadal. The recent Wimbledon champion is set to partner with the 22-time Grand Slam winner in an unprecedented doubles duo aiming for a medal. They will face the Argentine 6th seeds, Máximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni, in their first match.
This will be Alcaraz’s first Olympic experience, while Nadal will be competing in his third Games. Nadal previously won gold in singles at Beijing 2008 and in doubles at Rio 2016 with Marc Lopez.
Fresh off his victories at the French Open and Wimbledon, Alcaraz joins Nadal at Paris 2024, having matched Nadal’s achievement of the ‘Channel Slam.’ Nadal, who stayed on clay after his early exit at Roland Garros, recently finished as a runner-up in a final for the first time in two years.
Just a day before the tournament kicks off in Paris, Alcaraz spoke to Eurosport about the upcoming partnership with Nadal, expressing his excitement: “It’s incredible for me,” Alcaraz shared. “Learning from him up close is a truly unique experience. Representing my country in my first Games is a dream, and playing alongside my idol, Rafa Nadal, makes it even more special. We’re going to prepare for the doubles and aim for a good result and a medal. I’m looking forward to enjoying every moment.”
Despite their shared success at Roland Garros, the duo will need to coordinate their play, especially since both excel on their forehand side: “We’ve discussed it, but only briefly,” Alcaraz laughed. “We haven’t gone into specifics, but he’ll likely play on his backhand side while I play on mine.”
Alcaraz also commented on Andy Murray’s retirement as the Scottish player wraps up his career with a final professional event. Due to injury, Murray can only compete in doubles at Wimbledon and in Paris, where he will team up with Dan Evans.
“Andy is a fantastic role model,” Alcaraz noted. “He epitomizes perseverance and never giving up. His career has been remarkable despite the challenges and injuries he’s faced.”
“I have immense respect for him and what he’s accomplished is truly admirable,” Alcaraz added.
Returning to Roland Garros just two months after his first title there, Alcaraz reflected on the experience: “Returning to Philippe-Chatrier was very special. The atmosphere and decorations with the rings and blue were different. It felt unique, but training and playing on that court is always special.”
“Being in the Olympic village is a dream,” Alcaraz continued, appreciating the opportunity to be surrounded by athletes from other sports and the admiration he has received. “I didn’t expect so much and I’m grateful for the respect and suppor