Roger Federer backs Carlos Alcaraz’s belief that the Olympics is as important for tennis players as Grand Slam success – a view which Rafael Nadal doesn't agree with.
Nadal and Alcaraz are set to form a formidable partnership in the men's tennis doubles at the Paris Olympics. Alcaraz, the 21-year-old sensation who secured victories at both the French Open and Wimbledon this year, will join forces with 22-time Grand Slam champion Nadal in representing Spain.
The Paris Games could mark one of the last major tournament appearances for the 38-year-old, who has already won a singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. But even before his first taste of Olympics glory in Beijing, Nadal admitted that Grand Slam titles take precedence.
"A little bit less," Nadal remarked when ranking the importance of the Olympics. "For us, a Grand Slam is different. Grand Slams are special. Olympics are important too but after a grand slam."
Alcaraz, who was just five years old when Nadal made that comment, disagrees with his esteemed countryman. With three Grand Slam titles already under his belt, the prodigy from Murcia is keen to add an Olympic gold to his impressive collection.
Asked whether he would prefer to win Wimbledon or the Olympics, Alcaraz responded: "It is difficult to decide, but I would say the Games.
"They are every four years and you represent your country and all Spaniards. When I come back here I'll have flashbacks. It can be very nice, my first Games 40 days after my first Roland Garros. I would choose an Olympic gold."
Retired tennis legend Federer, despite his 20 Grand Slam titles, didn't quite mirror his rival Nadal's Olympic success. It is therefore unsurprising that his perspective on the Games aligns more closely with that of Alcaraz.
Federer told reporters back in July 2008: "If maybe I am a player who doesn't have any Grand Slams, maybe a Grand Slam would still do more for my own career. But because I have 12 already, for me an Olympic gold ranks as high.
"I was very proud to represent the Swiss in the 2000 Olympics and really just missed a medal. Last time was quite disappointing losing the second round but nevertheless, going there was one of the biggest experiences in life.
"So as long as I can walk and play, I will always come and play in the Olympics. Who knows, maybe I will carry the flag. That would be a great honour as well. It ranks very, very high in my scale, absolutely."
Federer lost his bronze medal match to Arnaud Di Pasquale at the 2000 Sydney Games. He also lost in the second round to Tomas Berdych four years later in Athens.
He endured further Olympic disappointment at London 2012, falling to Andy Murray in the final, just a month after defeating him in the same venue during the Wimbledon final. And his involvement at the 2016 Rio Olympics was scuppered due to a knee surgery recovery.
Meanwhile, Nadal seems to have developed a deeper respect for the Olympics over time, saying this month: "It's a great opportunity to be at the Games, the largest sporting event in the world. I appreciate being here. This will be my last. I've missed two (London 2012 and Tokyo 2020) and it hurt me more than missing a Grand Slam."
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2024-07-26T07:10:57Z dg43tfdfdgfd