Carlos Alcaraz recently spoke about his upcoming weeks, admitting that he doesn’t think he’ll play any doubles with Rafael Nadal before the Olympics.
Alcaraz and Nadal will team up for Spain at the upcoming Paris Olympics. It’s an event, which will be played on clay this year at the iconic Roland Garros venue, which both of them know very well.
Nadal won 14 times in the French capital, while Alcaraz just recently won his first major in Paris. It’s a great chance for both to experience a cool moment, while proudly representing their country on the biggest stage possible.
Nadal would like to have some practice time, according to reports, likely in Hamburg, but Alcaraz doesn’t seem to agree. During an interview with Radio Marca, he was asked about his upcoming schedule and admitted that he’ll play at the Queen’s Club, Wimbledon, and the Olympics.
He also admitted that he doesn’t think he’ll play any doubles with Nadal prior to the Olympic Games simply because there is no ‘time’.
“Well, in principle my calendar, now, is Queens, Wimbledon, and the Olympic Games. I don’t think we have time to prepare for the doubles with Nadal. Rafa knows how to pick up the pace in the doubles.”
Ideally, the two Spaniards would want to play some doubles before stepping out together for the Olympics, but the schedule is tight, and Alcaraz will likely prioritize singles as most players do.
However, he’ll have a much more experienced partner to lean for advice and guidance, and he also doesn’t doubt Nadal’s and his capability of adapting quickly.
“He knows what it is to play and win the gold in both singles and doubles, we will try to adapt in the best way possible ahead of the games.”
Alcaraz hasn’t played many doubles matches in his life, but with his skill set, there should be no doubt about his qualities. His court coverage and movement are excellent, and that will help on the clay as well.