Carlos Alcaraz aims to match the Grand Slam legacy of the “Big 3”

At 22 years old, Alcaraz has already won 6 Grand Slam titles, a feat far beyond what Federer, Nadal, or Djokovic had achieved at the same age.

For over two decades, men's tennis has been dominated by the legendary trio known as the “Big 3” – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, names etched in history with numerous monumental Grand Slam records. They redefined greatness, surpassing the once-thought-unbeatable milestone of 14 Grand Slam titles, with Djokovic currently leading an astonishing 24 titles.

But now, a new force has emerged: Carlos Alcaraz, a gifted young talent not only rising from their shadow but ready to rewrite the history of world tennis.

At just 22, Alcaraz has claimed 6 Grand Slam trophies, a record well ahead of what Federer, Nadal, or Djokovic had at this age. The young Spanish player, who won the 2022 US Open, has established himself as the world number one and shows no signs of slowing down. Fans everywhere are asking: Can he reach the heights of the “Big 3”?

In a candid interview with MARCA in Riyadh, Alcaraz spoke humbly yet passionately about his journey:

“Looking back over 10 years, it’s truly extraordinary. I never take anything for granted because every year is different. Players keep improving, new faces emerge, and things get more complicated. I hope to maintain this pace, but in tennis, each season is a new challenge, and that’s the hardest part.”

Alcaraz’s recent victory over Jannik Sinner in the US Open final not only showcased his talent but also marked an important milestone – he has now won 14 major titles (“Big Titles”), including Grand Slams, ATP Masters 1000, ATP Finals, and an Olympic medal.

Although Djokovic still leads with 24 Grand Slams, Alcaraz’s ambition to conquer shows he genuinely wants to catch up with the legends before him.

Former British player Tim Henman, who witnessed Alcaraz compete at the Laver Cup, offered high praise: “Alcaraz’s attitude, energy, and value are all at an exceptional level. The way he has developed his game is remarkable.”

Henman even compared Alcaraz to the Big 3, while pointing out the difference: “They set the bar so high that comparing the new generation is inherently unfair.”

In reality, Alcaraz is not just stepping into the legacy left by the Big 3 – he is reshaping it. Every match he plays is proof of a new era in world tennis.

After a loss to Sinner at the Six Kings Slam, Alcaraz remained determined: “There are many records I want to break, but obviously, the Grand Slam titles record is the biggest. Everyone wants to achieve that. And then there’s Djokovic’s record for the most weeks at number one – insane because it took over 400 weeks to reach.”

With the ATP Finals approaching, Alcaraz stays fully focused. The admiration from the tennis community only confirms one thing: Carlos Alcaraz is no longer just a promising young player – he is a true phenomenon making his mark in history.

Just months ago, Alcaraz shone brilliantly on the red clay of Roland Garros, winning the championship with the fiery gaze of a true champion. That momentum has not slowed – he recently defeated Jiri Lehecka at the HSBC Championships, earning the 21st title of his career and solidifying his status as one of the most formidable forces today.

American player Coco Vandeweghe also praised Alcaraz’s versatile playing ability.

“It will always be very tough for anyone to face Carlos Alcaraz. What amazes me is how well he adapts across all surfaces – hard, clay, and grass.”

She boldly claims that Alcaraz’s adaptability even surpasses Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic, highlighting the extraordinary nature of his talent.

As trophies continue to be lifted and the shadows of the legends gradually fade, one thing is certain: Carlos Alcaraz is on an unstoppable journey toward glory. Whether he can surpass the time-tested limits and records of the Big 3 remains an open question – but one thing is clear: he is crafting a legend worthy of the title “The New King of Tennis.”