Carlos Alcaraz has learned this the most about Rafael Nadal throughout his career after winning Netflix Slam

Following his triumph at the Netflix Slam exhibition, Carlos Alcaraz shared his primary takeaway from Rafael Nadal. A generational clash unfolded in Las Vegas, pitting the 20-year-old rising star against the 37-year-old 22-time Grand Slam champion, often hailed as the heir to Nadal in Spanish tennis.

In an entertaining match, Alcaraz faced some initial inconsistencies against the aggressive Nadal, who took an early lead in the first set. However, the victory ultimately went to Alcaraz, who gradually found his rhythm on the court and won the match 3-6, 6-4 ¨´[14-12]

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Netflix Slam Showdown: Carlos ALCARAZ claims victory against Rafael NADAL in entertaining exhibition in Las Vegas

Alcaraz's admiration for Nadal

The Spanish young star has repeatedly expressed that his compatriot is one of his biggest idols since his early days in tennis. Alcaraz was born in 2003, while Nadal has been a professional since 2001. When asked, the world No. 2 shared his thoughts on his admiration for Rafa:

“You’ve talked so much about admiring Rafa... He’s been your idol and you’ve said you like to learn from him. What have you learned the most from Rafa throughout your career?” Alcaraz was asked.

“I think the fighting spirit. He never gives up on any ball, he runs to every corner of the court, hitting amazing shots. I had a few match points before I got it. He made an unbelievable shot,” claimed Alcaraz.

He never gives up. I try to keep that for my game. That mentality he has.. finding solutions when things aren’t going well every time.. it’s admirable from him. I try to keep it. I think everybody in life should try to keep it as well,” he added.

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The Spaniards idols set their sights on Indian Wells

Both players are gearing up for the Indian Wells tournament starting on March 6th. Alcaraz enters as the second seed, though he is not currently in his best form on the court, and a significant points defense looms, which could potentially alter his standing as the world No. 2.

As for Nadal, he is set to make his return after two months, having participated in only one tournament at the beginning of January. The former world No. 1 withdrew from the Australian Open and subsequently the Qatar Open, making the exhibition a crucial part of Nadal's preparation to regain a high level of competitiveness.