Not Rafa Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz picks this former star for 'best forehand' in tennis history

Carlos Alcaraz named Jannik Sinner as the player with the best backhand.

Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz has stirred debate among fans after overlooking Rafael Nadal when asked to name the player with the best forehand in tennis history.

It’s hardly surprising that the two Spaniards are constantly compared in several aspects of tennis. Both found success at a young age, both burst onto the world stage with thrilling power and passion, and both share a similar fighting spirit that has made Spain a tennis powerhouse.

Nadal, the undisputed King of Clay, seems to have a natural heir in Alcaraz, who has already carved his own place among the sport’s elite.

While Nadal’s heavy, topspin-laden forehand has defined his legendary career and helped him claim 22 Grand Slam titles, Alcaraz revealed during an interview with AS TV that his pick for the greatest forehand in history belonged to Juan Martín del Potro.

Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz snubs Rafael Nadal, names this icon as ‘work of art’

In a quickfire Spanish-language segment, the interviewer gave Alcaraz several categories — from best forehand to best volley — and the current World No. 2 didn’t hesitate to name the Argentine. And why not? Del Potro’s forehand remains one of the most feared shots the sport has ever seen.

The Argentine powerhouse won 22 ATP Tour singles titles, including the 2009 US Open, where he famously defeated both Nadal and five-time defending champion Roger Federer to claim his maiden Grand Slam.

Alcaraz’s admiration for Federer is no secret, either. When asked about the best volley in history, the Spaniard immediately named the Swiss legend. For shot selection, he turned to another all-time great, Novak Djokovic.

But it was his pick for backhand that raised eyebrows. Alcaraz chose his biggest current rival, Jannik Sinner, who recently overtook him as ATP World No. 1.

Also Read: Top five tennis players who admire Rafael Nadal as the greatest athlete

And for footwork? Alcaraz couldn’t resist a smile as he confidently named himself.

Despite leaving Nadal out of his “perfect player” list, there’s no bad blood between the two. In fact, Nadal and Alcaraz share a warm and respectful relationship built on admiration and legacy.

Alcaraz has often spoken about idolizing Nadal as a child, calling him his biggest inspiration. Nadal, in turn, has publicly praised Alcaraz’s talent and mentality, recently saying Spain should be “very, very happy about having someone like Carlos.”

Their bond was on display at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where the two teamed up to play doubles for Spain.

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