Absences of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer shouldn't detract from my No. 1 rank - Carlos Alcaraz

Carlos Alcaraz doesn't think his achievements in 2022 should be lessened by the regular absences in 2022 of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. Tennis' GOAT trio have had a difficult year, with Federer yet to play due to a long-term knee issue, Djokovic only able to play at two of the four majors because of his Covid-19 unvaccinated status, and Nadal — though winning two slams — out of action for a number of weeks due to foot, rib and abdominal problems. Ad Alcaraz has stepped into the breach to win two ATP 1000 titles, the US Open for his first major crown, and also taking the world No.

1 ranking. TennisBig Four reunite, battle for year-end No. 1: What's left of 2022 season?6 HOURS AGO “Look, I don’t want to take credit away from myself,” Alcaraz said to the New York Times of his successes.

“But it’s true that Rafa, Djokovic, Federer, they were in a period when they were all playing. I had the luck or whatever you want to call it that Djokovic could not play. «Everybody has their reasons, but that is the reality.

He could not play much for a while, and Rafa kept playing but not all year, either. »But like I said, I don’t want to take credit away from myself. I have been playing all season, playing incredible matches and incredible tournaments, and I’ve worked really hard so that things like this could happen.” Swiatek eager to learn Serena-style 'pressure and intimidation', targets career Grand Slam Big Four reunite, battle for year-end No.