With Rafael Nadal officially retired as of November 2024, the era of the “Big Three” is in its twilight, leaving Novak Djokovic as its last active member. Despite this, Nadal is optimistic about the next generation, particularly regarding his fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz and current World No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
In a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Nadal shared his belief that Alcaraz and Sinner currently stand above their peers. He expressed confidence that, barring injury, they are poised for a bright future filled with success at the highest levels.
“It seems that Jannik and Carlos [Alcaraz] are at a higher level than the others and that if they are spared from injuries, they will fight for the most important titles for a long time,” Nadal said.
While acknowledging their current superiority, Nadal also emphasized the unpredictability of the sport. “Jannik and Carlos have an advantage over the others at the moment; they seem to be at a higher level and have been for the last two years, but we will see; the future is unpredictable,” said the 22-time Grand Slam champion.
Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Jannik Sinner of Italy pose for a picture prior to their US Open game. (Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Nadal concluded by reflecting on the beauty of tennis, tied to its inherent uncertainty. “The beauty and greatness of the sport is linked to its unpredictability,” Nadal added. “However, it is clear that these are two special players who will mark an era”.
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Nadal on Sinner’s return
Jannik Sinner is set to make his return at the Masters of Rome, facing Mariano Navone in his opener. This marks Sinner’s comeback after a three-month suspension imposed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) following a positive doping test in 2024.
Nadal noted that returning after a lengthy absence is never easy. “It will be difficult because it is always like this when you return after a period away from competitions,” he said.
However, Nadal pointed out a silver lining for Sinner: his ability to maintain training during the suspension. “But the positive thing is that Jannik [Sinner] is not returning after an injury; he was able to continue training and preparing, and I think he will take to the field with great desire,” Nadal added.
Nadal on Sinner’s doping case
Sinner’s doping case caused controversy in the tennis world, with many expecting a harsher penalty in line with previous incidents. Several players openly criticized WADA for its handling of the case.
Nadal addressed the situation, expressing trust in the governing body’s decision. “Not having access to all the relevant information, I prefer to respect the processes and justice,” Nadal said. “The person who judged the case has all the information that we do not have, and based on this, he made the decision he considered the most correct, and that must be respected 100%”.
The tennis icon also expressed his unwavering support for Sinner. “I have 100% confidence in Jannik. I am 100% convinced that Jannik did not want to deceive. I know him personally, and I have total confidence in his innocence,” Nadal stated. “However, sometimes there are accidents and things happen. Unfortunately, we are exposed to this type of situation, and the verdict must be accepted. But I repeat, I believe in Jannik’s innocence”.
