Carlos Alcaraz meant business when he took on Rafael Nadal at the Six Kings Slam.
Spain’s two greatest tennis players faced one another in singles competition for the final time at the lucrative exhibition event at Saudi Arabia.
The Six Kings is Slam Rafael Nadal’s penultimate event before he retires from the sport after 23 years during which he achieved sporting immortality.
He is due to bid farewell at the conclusion of November’s Davis Cup finals, which will be on home soil in Malaga, Spain.
What did Carlos Alcaraz say about playing Rafael Nadal at the Six Kings Slam?
Alcaraz promised he would play to his maximum against Nadal at the Six Kings Slam and that is exactly what transpired. He forced Nadal back with some piercing forehands and each time he was able to be aggressive he took the chance.
Alcaraz claimed a 6-3, 6-3 victor over Nadal and shared a warm embrace with the 22-time Grand Slam winner after the contest.
Post-match Carlos Alcaraz went into more detail on how hard he actually played to secure a win over his Spanish compatriot.
“Trust me, I had to play at my best level honestly. Rafa has been out of competition at this level and you have to have matches to feel good on the court,” the 21-year-old said.
“But honestly I had to be focused and try to play my best if I want to beat Rafa. It is always tough. It was a good time sharing the court with him once again.”
