Carlos Alcaraz turns a ‘deaf ear’ to Rafael Nadal comparisons, expects ‘difficult’ 2023 as environment No. 1

Carlos Alcaraz states he blocks out comparisons to Rafael Nadal and is braced for a challenging 2023 season with “a great deal pressure” on him.

His accomplishment at these types of an early age have drawn comparisons with fellow Spaniard Nadal, who won his first Grand Slam aged 19 and attained globe No. 1 a few many years later.

But Alcaraz, who is recovering from an belly injury that ruled him out of the Nitto ATP Finals, explained to a press conference that he turns a “deaf ear” to the comparisons.

“There is no position in evaluating,” he explained.

“It won’t subject that now I am environment No. 1, Rafa’s complete occupation counts for a ton.”

Alcaraz added that he hopes to achieve “at minimum half” of what Nadal has over his legendary vocation.

He also explained “it is a pleasure, for each and every tennis lover, to see Rafa on the court”.

Alcaraz is on vacation in Tenerife as he seems to recover from an stomach personal injury ahead of the new year.

He states he is trying to “regain energy in advance of returning to the court”.

Seeking in advance to 2023, Alcaraz added: “The period is heading to be tough since I am heading to start as the favorite and there is going to be a large amount of pressure on me.

“But I try out to retain the good aspect and see that all this does not go to my head. In the conclude, beating your idols is an remarkable achievement.

“I check out to just take it ordinarily and in no way fail to remember that what ever takes place in the long term, I have to appreciate tennis and engage in at my degree.”

He will be hoping to be 100% healthful for the Australian Open up on January 16.