"We have played much better than the other day"

Fernando Murciego | 30 Jul 2024 | 22.49

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The 'Nadalcarazmania' continues its course in these Paris 2024 Olympic Games after the Spanish pair has taken another step and has made it to the quarterfinals of the men's doubles draw. A hard-fought victory this Tuesday against the Netherlands, a triumph that confirms an improvement in the sports connection for this duo who dream higher and higher of clinching a medal. These were the statements of Rafa Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to Eurosport microphones a few hours ago.

RAFA NADAL

"If we had taken advantage of some opportunities earlier, perhaps we wouldn't have needed to reach the super-tiebreak. We played much better than on the first day, in general, we were more solid, but in the second set, just when we were playing better, they managed two break points against us, and in doubles, we know that everything can change in a moment. Then in the super-tiebreak, starting with very positive energy helped us, winning some crucial points from the beginning."

"We've connected well, much better than the other day. Neither of us plays a lot of doubles, so as the days go by, we improve, although the risk is always there when playing against established doubles players. Today, Carlos helped me a lot at the net; he keeps improving in reading the plays, and I think I do the same. Due to my additional years, I've played more doubles than him, but not excessively. Carlos brings me everything; he has the energy of youth, greatly enhanced by his incredible physicality. He can produce shots that seem impossible; he can come up with a stroke of genius at any moment."

CARLOS ALCARAZ

"I think we've played at a very high level, much better than the first day in terms of positioning ourselves at the net. It was normal to start a bit unsure, but as we continue to advance, we'll get better. Obviously, people want us to win the doubles gold, but that's normal. We try not to think too much about it, about the pressure, or that we are obliged to do it."

"Obviously, with the name alone, you don't win in doubles, so anything can happen. There are great doubles players who partner throughout the year, have a lot of confidence, and a high level, so we must stay focused and improve gradually. Hopefully, we can achieve our goal and that of all the Spaniards. Little by little, we are getting to know each other better on the court and off it. In these Olympics, we have the opportunity to live together and have a family atmosphere, which obviously helps a lot on the court."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, “Hemos jugado bastante mejor que el otro día”