BERLIN, SEPT 23 – Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz dismissed comparisons with 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer, shortly after his win over Taylor Fritz helped Team Europe clinch the Laver Cup title yesterday.
The 21-year-old player defeated Taylor Fritz from the United States (US) with a result of 6-2, 7-5 in the final of the tournament which took place in Berlin.
The European team, which had previously lost in the last two editions, needed a win from Alexander Zverev, the local player, who managed to overcome Frances Tiafoe 6-7(5/7), 7-5, 10-5. Zverev’s success opened the door for Alcaraz to finish the tournament with a win.
However, after that success, Alcaraz rejected any comparison with Federer at the peak of his career, describing it as something ‘impossible’.
“I’m still far from that level,” he said. “I hope one day to be able to achieve that, but for now, it’s really impossible.”
Alcaraz, who won the French Open and Wimbledon this season, admitted it was his first time participating in the Laver Cup tournament.
“It’s really great. We can all be proud. I am very happy. Each of us has done a great job throughout this tournament,” he added.
“We almost lost, but Sasha (Zverev) came out with a very good game and gave me a chance to win the Laver Cup.”
The world number three player also contributed to Team Europe’s success in the opening match yesterday, when he teamed up with Casper Ruud to win the doubles match 6-2, 7-6(8/6).
Alcaraz also admitted he was more nervous watching his teammates play than being on the court himself.
“It is difficult to watch from the outside. I tried to calm myself by watching in the dressing room and supporting from there. But the palpitations are still felt,” he said. – AFP
