“No need to worry about two losses”: Rafael Nadal defends Carlos Alcaraz after Miami Open setback

Wednesday, 25 March 2026 at 00:00

Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal proudly representing their country

Rafael Nadal defended Carlos Alcaraz amid growing scrutiny over his recent results, speaking on the same day he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the Polytechnic University of Madrid. “No need to worry about two losses; it makes no sense,” Nadal said, using the occasion to shift the focus back onto the bigger picture surrounding the World No. 1.

Alcaraz’s latest defeat came at the Miami Open, where he lost to Sebastian Korda, following an earlier setback against Daniil Medvedev in Indian Wells. The results have prompted discussion, but they arrive after a demanding stretch in the early part of the season.

That stretch included 16 consecutive victories, with titles at the Australian Open and ATP Doha, reinforcing the level Alcaraz has sustained throughout the year. Despite the recent losses, his overall trajectory remains consistent with his status at the top of the rankings.

Attention now turns to the clay-court swing, where Alcaraz returns home to reset ahead of a demanding period in which he will defend 4,300 ranking points. In that context, Nadal’s comments serve to temper expectations rather than amplify short-term concerns.

Nadal calls for perspective amid rising expectations

Nadal framed Alcaraz’s situation within a broader evaluation of sustained success. “I think we should all congratulate him and be grateful for everything Carlos is doing,” he said, adding, “He’s giving Spanish sport a level of success that would have been hard to imagine twenty or thirty years ago.”

He pointed to how repeated achievements can distort perception. “Maybe we’ve become used to it lately,” Nadal explained. “But I never lose sight of how difficult everything Carlos achieves really is.” He extended that point beyond nationality, stressing that such consistency is exceptional in any context.

From his perspective, focusing on isolated defeats overlooks the scale of Alcaraz’s output. “Worrying about two losses makes no sense, and you can’t ask for more than what he’s already giving,” Nadal said, reinforcing the idea that expectations must remain grounded.

Reaction to frustration and a reminder of reality

Nadal also addressed Alcaraz’s visible frustration during his Miami loss, describing it as part of the natural demands of elite competition. “No matter how successful you are, everyone has the right to have a day when they feel frustrated or tired,” he said, framing the reaction as normal rather than concerning.

He acknowledged that Alcaraz himself might reflect differently on that moment. “When he sees himself, he probably would have preferred not to show it,” Nadal noted. “There was no need to display it; you feel it inside and keep it to yourself.” Still, he emphasised that such reactions remain understandable.

Read also

Expanding further, Nadal reiterated that fluctuations are inevitable. “We can all have a day when things don’t go well or when you feel more tired than usual,” he said. “It’s completely respectable and, from the perspective of another athlete, even more understandable.”

He concluded with a broader reality check on expectations surrounding the World No. 1. “When someone has just won the Australian Open, has seven Grand Slams and is the world number one… what, is he going to win every match of the year?” Nadal said. “That’s simply not going to happen.”

Nadal receives honorary doctorate in Madrid

Earlier in the day, Nadal was named Doctor Honoris Causa by the Polytechnic University of Madrid, one of the highest distinctions awarded by an academic institution. The university recognised him as “the best Spanish athlete in history,” adding another milestone to his career beyond tennis.

“For someone who has dedicated his life to sport, receiving an honorary doctorate from an institution of reference in engineering, science and innovation has a very special meaning,” Nadal said. “I receive this distinction not only as personal recognition, but also as recognition of sport and the values it represents.”

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

See author's posts

claps 0visitors 0

“It’s about getting better every day”: Aryna Sabalenka downplays No. 1 milestone amid Miami run

Hubert Hurkacz follows Swiatek as Poland’s United Cup stars both lose coaches