Google News Patrick Mouratoglou identifies few similarities between Carlos Alcaraz, Rafael Nadal
by DZEVAD MESIC | VIEW 4660
Renowned tennis coach Patrick Mouratoglou has given a detailed analysis of what makes Carlos Alcaraz's forehand so deadly. Alcaraz, who just turned 19, is already doing big things in the game and many tennis experts and pundits thinks he is already a complete player.
Alcaraz is already one of the most physically dominant players on the ATP Tour and his "deadly" forehand is one of the things that stand out. "Carlos Alcaraz has been playing amazing this year. Let's have a look at his killer forehand.
As you can see, he starts his forehand motion very early. He positions his body and starts his backswing well before the ball touches the ground," Mouratoglou said in a clip posted on his Instagram. "His preparation is short and simple.
This gives him plenty of time to prepare for the ball and avoid being late. He pushes the racket head with his left hand which helps him rotate his entire upper body and keep control of the racket. When his racket is back, see how his left shoulder is lined up just under his chin."
Mouratoglou on the Alcaraz - Rafael Nadal similarities
Alcaraz is often compared to his idol Nadal and Mouratoglou thinks there are definitely certain similarities betwene the two.
"Even though he is a righty, a lot of people compare Alcaraz to Rafael Nadal. There are a few things that they have in common. The grip, the takeback, how they engage their legs, the racket acceleration at impact and the racket path," Mouratoglou added.
Alcaraz is a two-time Masters champion and is ranked at No. 6 in the world. En route to winning Madrid, Alcaraz beat Nadal and Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz has said that he feels confident in his French Open chances and he is definitely considered among favorites for the title at Roland Garros.
Nadal is bothered by a lingering foot issue and there are concerns regarding his fitness level. It remains to be seen if Alcaraz can continue his stunning 2022 and win a first Grand Slam as a teenager.
