Alcaraz on Nadal’s Netflix doc comments: “What really matters is tennis, yes”
Rafael Nadal said in L’Equipe that the documentary “My Way”, did not show the real Carlos Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal, 2024 | © Gepa / Psnewz
If there were any doubts, defending Roland-Garros champion Carlos Alcaraz made it clear that tennis remains his top priority following the release of his documentary My Way.
Rafael Nadal recently told L’Équipe that the film didn’t fully reflect Alcaraz’s dedication to the sport. Asked about those comments during French Open media day, Alcaraz responded directly.
“Yes, I read it,” the Spaniard said in his native language. “And I really appreciate what Rafa said.”
“There are lots of different opinions—some people see it one way, others differently. Many have told me the documentary showed too much of my party-loving side, that it made it seem like I’m really into nightlife. Personally, I don’t see it that way, but I respect all kinds of views.”
Alcaraz : “People shouldn’t forget that I’ve come this far by being myself”
“In the end,” Alcaraz continued, “it gives a glimpse into my life—and that includes enjoying myself. I try to balance that with my profession and passion, which is tennis. Obviously, I’m a professional. Tennis comes first. But I also make space for moments of fun.”
“Maybe it just happened that when they were filming, it captured me going out—like any 21- or 22-year-old might. But that doesn’t mean I lose focus on what really matters, which is tennis. People shouldn’t forget that I’ve come this far by being myself.”
The exact question posed to Alcaraz was: “As Nadal said, do you agree that the film doesn’t reflect who you truly are as a tennis player?” Nadal’s exact quotes in L’Equipe, reported in French, were : “Knowing Carlos a bit, I think it doesn’t reflect who he really is. He comes across more as someone who loves partying and isn’t very professional. That’s not true.”
“Carlos is a great professional. He works very hard to take his tennis and fitness to the highest level. I think the documentary was approached the wrong way—it gave people a different perception than his real life. Then, if you ask whether you must push yourself to the limit to be a champion? No one forces you. You decide how far you want to go. No one pushes you there.”
Alcaraz will begin his title defense on Monday against Japan’s Kei Nishikori.
