Carlos Alcaraz says winning the Davis Cup for Rafael Nadal is a “huge motivation” and will mark the “most special” tournament of his career.
Nadal, 22-time Grand Slam champion, retire from tennis after representing Spain in next week’s Davis Cup final in Malaga.
Spain will face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals on Tuesday as they look to add to their six titles – four of which Nadal has participated in.
“This is probably the most special tournament I will play in my career, because of what is happening, because of the circumstances,” said Alcaraz, 21, ranked third in the world.
“The Davis Cup has always been a tournament that I would like to win one day. I am passionate about representing Spain.
“Having Rafa by my side, knowing it’s his last tournament, will make it even more special.”
Alcaraz made his Davis Cup debut in 2022, three years after Spain’s last title.
He and Nadal, 17 years his senior, teamed up in doubles at this summer’s Olympics in Paris but were eliminated in the quarterfinals.
Nadal will retire as the second most successful men’s singles player of all time, behind long-time rival Novak Djokovic.
“No player deserves more to end the incredible career he has had with a title, and I know how special the Davis Cup is to him. It will be a difficult challenge but winning it for Rafa is a huge motivation.” , Alcaraz said on the ATP website. .
He added: “Rafa’s farewell is much more important, at least for me. The Davis Cup is every year. Rafa’s farewell, saying goodbye to a legend of the sport, unfortunately only happens once only time. Personally, I am very excited to be next to Rafa for his farewell.
