London: Carlos Alcaraz says winning the Davis Cup for Rafael Nadal is a “huge motivation” and will mark the “most special” tournament of his career.
Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, will retire from tennis after representing Spain in next week’s Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, the BBC reported.
Spain face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals on Tuesday as they look to add to their six titles – four of which Nadal has played a part in.
“It’s probably the most special tournament I’ll play in my career, because of what’s happening, because of the circumstances,” said 21-year-old Alcaraz, who is ranked third in the world.
“The Davis Cup has always been a tournament that I’d love to win one day. I’m passionate about representing Spain.
“Having Rafa by my side, knowing it’s his last tournament, will make it much more special.”
Alcaraz made his Davis Cup debut in 2022, three years after Spain’s most recent title.
He and Nadal, 17 years his senior, teamed up in the doubles at this summer’s Olympics in Paris, though were knocked out in the quarter-finals.
Nadal will retire as the second-most successful men’s singles player of all time, behind only long-time rival Novak Djokovic.
“No player deserves more to finish the incredible career he had with a title, and I know how special the Davis Cup is for him. It will be a difficult challenge but winning it for Rafa is a huge motivation,” Alcaraz said.
He added: “Rafa’s farewell is much more important, at least for me. The Davis Cup is every year. Rafa’s farewell, saying goodbye to a legend of the sport, unfortunately only happens once. Personally I’m very excited to be by Rafa’s side for his farewell.”
