'I Bow Down'-Carlos Alcaraz Lauds Rafael Nadal After Barcelona Loss

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Vivek Devane | Last updated Apr 20, 2025 2:37 PM ET

Carlos Alcaraz lost to Holger Rune in straight sets at the Barcelona Open. This loss also meant that his undefeated run at the Barcelona Open since 2021 was also broken. There is another well-known Spaniard, who has absolutely dominated at this venue throughout his career.

Rafael Nadal has won the Barcelona Open 12 times in his career, a record that no one has even come close to touching, let alone beating.

When asked to comment on Nadal’s dominance here, Alcaraz said-"I bow down to Rafa for being able to win so many consecutive Monte Carlo and Barcelona matches. Now I'm aware of the demands of playing these two weeks in a row, and its so tough"

For those who do not know Nadal holds the record for most titles won at three ATP tour levels. In grand slams he holds the record for 14 French Open titles. When it comes to masters, he holds that record at the Monte Carlo masters having won it 11 times and finally here at Barcelona Open when it comes to 500s. Carlos Alcaraz, acknowledging this feat, said that we will never witness anything like that ever again.

Carlos Alcaraz, will now look to rest up and recharge ahead of Madrid Open. Alcaraz was disappointed with his loss but said the pressure of having to continue the streak did not affect his performance.

“It's hard to always be the favorite,” said Alcaraz. “You feel the need to win because of the crowd or the demands they put on you.” Alcaraz also said, “I try not to focus on those expectations, but rather on my own goals. What I want is to leave the court happy, beyond winning or losing.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: