Rafael Nadal is backing Carlos Alcaraz to overtake his epic grand slam haul

Alcaraz, who will turn 23 in May next year, has won six majors, having secured two titles at each of the US Open, Wimbledon and the French Open.

If Alcaraz wins either of the next two editions of the Australian Open, he will become the youngest man in the Open Era to triumph at each of the four majors. Nadal holds the record, having been 24 when he won the 2010 US Open to complete the career Grand Slam.

Alcaraz finished 2025 as the world No. 1 after winning eight tournaments (two Grand Slams, three Masters 1000s and three ATP 500s) to take his career title tally to 24.

The Spaniard was also a runner-up at Wimbledon, the ATP Finals and the Barcelona Open in what was a career-best campaign to date.

In an appearance on Spanish radio programme El Larguero, Nadal shared his thoughts on Alcaraz and suggested his countryman could go on to equal his haul of 22 Grand Slams.

"Spectacular, how are we going to see it? I don't tend to have high expectations, I've always seen him as very good, with the potential to make history in our sport," said the former world No 1.

"22 Grand Slams? Why not? Six is already a lot and he has a spectacular trajectory.

"The most important thing is that he doesn't get injured. If you don't have injuries, I think you also don't lose confidence in your body and that keeps you improving."

The legendary Mallorcan was also asked if he still watches tennis, and he commented on Alcaraz and Sinner's status.

"I watch some tennis matches, the ones I feel like watching," Nadal said.

"I think Sinner and Alcaraz need someone to push them [Joao] Fonseca? I think he's still young and not in a position to think about that.

"They need someone to push them a bit because they've set themselves apart from everyone else and in any form they can beat anyone, until they come up against that other player.

"Those of us watching from the outside have the feeling that even if they play badly, they're going to keep winning and reaching all the finals."

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