"He has all the ingredients to become an amazing champion" - Nadal heaps praise on Alcaraz

Rafael Nadal said he approached facing Carlos Alcaraz in the Indian Wells semi-final like he was "playing against a top-eight player" and says he has what it takes to become "an amazing champion".

Nadal needed three hours and 12 minutes to overcome the 18-year-old 6-4 4-6 6-3 in a thrilling contest in windy conditions on Saturday. The 21-time Grand Slam title winner, who extended his unbeaten record to 20-0 for the year, says Alcaraz has the skillset to get to the top of the men's game.

Speaking after, Nadal said:

“I think he has all the shots. He can play very aggressive. He can play defensive because he's super fast. He can defend amazing balls. Of course, when he's playing aggressive, it is difficult to stop him because the quality of his ball is very high. I think he has all the ingredients to become an amazing champion. I didn't come to the match more nervous because I was playing a youngster."

Speaking further, Nadal said:

“When you are young, when you are living new experiences for the first time, everything is new. You are playing in stadiums, against opponents, in tournaments that just one or two years ago you were watching on TV. I think you're excited. You have the passion. You have nothing to lose…he's at the beginning of this process."

Nadal finished up with:

"It looks like he's humble enough to work hard and to understand that we, the tennis players, if we want to be great champions, the only way is to keep improving during all our careers. That's what I tried. I really believe that he's doing that. I don't have many doubts that he will be great. He is already, by the way!”