This is how Alcaraz's opponents describe the experience of facing him

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Destined for glory, on the path to becoming a legend, taking tennis to another level, and breaking astonishing precocity records. That's how ATP circuit player Carlos Alcaraz is making waves, constantly causing a sensation and sparking numerous theories about how far his tennis can go. After completing the Career Grand Slam, it's time to gather some of the most forceful statements about his game from his competitors.

Day by day, the tennis world doesn't slow down. Tournaments are strung together, challenges arise every time a big success is achieved, and there's barely any time to truly appreciate the experiences. There's a risk of not grasping the magnitude of what Carlos Alcaraz is accomplishing, no matter how many statistical data, historic records, and titles he conquers. Sometimes, a collection of statements from his rivals, like the one done by the NY Times, is the best way to understand the game of this young Murcian, a mass phenomenon, an icon for people worldwide, and an athlete set to accomplish historic feats.

Here are some of the most striking statements about Alcaraz from his rivals

"When you play against him, you can't just get the ball in play. Any ball that falls a bit short means losing the point because he will take advantage, there's no option to just rally. He's the toughest opponent I've ever faced," mentioned Daniil Medvedev some months back, echoed by Alexander Zverev. "If you give him time, if you let him dictate the points, you stand no chance. It's impossible for any ball to the center of the court without depth to result in something positive for you. That's what impresses me the most about him," stated the German.

Many speculate about possible similarities between Carlos Alcaraz and the Big 3 and there are many who already claim he combines virtues from all three. "He's like Federer in his aggressiveness whenever he has an opportunity and how efficient he is attacking, but he also has things from Djokovic, like his ease of sliding across the court, or from Rafa, with his heavy drive shots, with that characteristic spin," warned Zverev, who has faced the Spaniard 13 times, with a 7-6 record in favor of the Murcian and great battles fought.

"He's not afraid to be aggressive and go for the point in tense situations," said Draper, opening up a critical aspect to measure Carlos's danger, lethal in those moments when many falter. Holger Rune also emphasizes this; he knows the Murcian well having been his intimate rival since they were 14. "He's very brave. Many times, you expect a deep ball with margin, and suddenly you see him hitting a winner," he warned.

Tactical intelligence, courage, speed, and natural talent, some of Alcaraz's lethal weapons

Another key factor in understanding the greatness of Carlos Alcaraz is his tactical intelligence, something that has matured over time. "Many times I realize things I can try when facing him, but as I execute them, I understand that in the long run, it won't serve me well because he'll quickly correct to counter my proposal. His great advantage is that he can do absolutely everything on the court," affirmed Taylor Fritz.

"Great tennis players have the virtue of raising their level when their rival is playing their best," said Ben Shelton, elaborated by Álex de Miñaur. "He forces you to play outside your comfort zone; in the end, you make errors because you can't keep up with his pace," asserted the Australian. Casper Ruud's words were also telling. "When he's inspired, he makes no mistakes and becomes an unplayable opponent. He forces you to aim for the lines at all times, and errors are inevitable," said the Norwegian.

These are just some of the many stories that make up the legacy Carlos Alcaraz is creating. Many of his triumphs begin even before stepping onto the court because of the intimidating image he has garnered as a formidable player, putting immense pressure on his opponents, who are fully aware that they need to play a perfect match but also that the Murcian must be at his best. If he has achieved this at just 23 years old, it will be interesting, and unnerving for his rivals, to see how he continues his evolution.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Así describen los rivales de Alcaraz la experiencia de enfrentarse a él