"Today showed why it's the best sport in the world" - Mark Petchey hails Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev after duo earn first titles of 2023

Former tennis player Mark Petchey has showered praise on Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev as the duo registered their first title wins in 2023. The former won the Argentina Open whereas the latter clinched the ABN AMRO Open.

Alcaraz and Medvedev have had their share of setbacks in recent times. The Spaniard was out of action on tour for more than 100 days owing to several injuries. Meanwhile, the Russian's results in tournaments of late have been substandard. However, both players have turned things around as they secure their first titles in the new season.

In the Argentina Open final, Alcaraz outclassed second-seeded Cameron Norrie in straight sets. Medvedev triumphed over Jannik Sinner in what was a thrilling final in Rotterdam.

Reacting to Medvedev's match, Petchey suggested that there would not be many better finals on tour this year than the one at Rotterdam on Sunday. He also congratulated the World No. 8 and his coach on the title win.

"Doubt there will be many better finals than that on tour this year. Congrats @DaniilMedwed and @CervaraG on the [trophy]," he wrote in his tweet.

He also opined that Sinner, Medvedev's opponent in the final, would make his way to the top 5 by the end of the year.

"@janniksin will be top 5 year end as well," Petchey added.

Petchey also hailed Alcaraz for his title win on Sunday. He even recalled a quote from William Shakespeare about "greatness" on the occasion to emphasize the Spaniard's expertise.

"Today showed why its the best sport in the world. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them. William Shakespeare 52 years in the making that quote. At 19, @carlosalcaraz is all of it," the former player tweeted.

Alcaraz dropped just a single set during the entire tournament.

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Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev will next take part at the Rio Open and Qatar Open respectively

Carlos Alcaraz at the 2022 Paris Masters - Day Five

After successful campaigns for Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev at the Argentina Open and ABN AMRO Open respectively, the duo will soon be in action in two upcoming tournaments.

Alcaraz will take part in the Rio Open where he will face off against Mateus Alves in the first round on Wednesday (February 22).

Meanwhile, Medvedev's opponent in the Round-of-16 at the Qatar Open is yet to be finalized. The third seed gained a bye in the opening round.