Carlos Alcaraz expressed his enthusiasm for Rafa Nadal’s inclusion in Spain’s Davis Cup staff for the quarterfinals in November, hoping the occasion in Malaga will not sign the tip of the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s illustrious profession.
Nadal’s choice for the Final 8, scheduled for Nov. 19-24, got here as a shock. The 38-year-old has not competed for the reason that Paris Olympics in July and has missed each the U.S. Open and the Laver Cup this month resulting from ongoing health points.
After battling accidents all year long, together with a hip concern that required surgical procedure, Nadal has hinted that he plans to conclude his injury-riddled profession this yr, resulting in hypothesis that the Davis Cup is perhaps his swan music.
“It’s always great having Rafa around. I miss him. I’m not going to lie; I missed him in the Laver Cup. Obviously, as much time as I can spend with him is a privilege for me,” stated Alcaraz, who partnered with Nadal in doubles on the Paris Games.
“I don’t want to think that it’s a potential last dance for him in Malaga. I just want to enjoy seeing him on court as much as I can. It’s great support having him in the team. He can bring a lot of experience to the Davis Cup.”
Nadal had focused a return on the Laver Cup earlier than finally withdrawing, and the Spaniard has not stated the place he plans to play earlier than the Davis Cup.
Alcaraz, who was shocked by unseeded Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp within the second spherical of the U.S. Open, stated guiding Team Europe to victory within the Laver Cup was the right preparation for the China Open, which begins Thursday.
“I played great matches in the Laver Cup, which helped me a lot to have more confidence coming to this tournament,” Alcaraz informed reporters in Beijing.
“I beat Ben Shelton, who was playing great, and Taylor Fritz, who came from the final in New York. Having those victories is great for my confidence and level to come here with extra energy, knowing I’m ready to achieve a good result, even with a really tough draw.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com