"We are going to have a great champion for many years" - Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni on Carlos Alcaraz

Toni Nadal, Rafael Nadal's uncle and former coach, recently predicted that Carlos Alcaraz would remain at the top of the game for many years. He also stated that he sees shades of his nephew in Alcaraz's game.

Alcaraz made a name for himself at the age of 19 by winning his first Major at the 2022 US Open. He also rose to World No. 1, defeating the likes of Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal over the course of the year.

The Spaniard won the third Masters 1000 title of his career at Indian Wells earlier this month. He is often compared to his compatriot Nadal due to the similarities in their early-career accomplishments.

Toni Nadal was recently asked, in a conversation with Marca, about the comparison between Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal. Toni replied that the 19-year-old's self-confidence, intensity and bravery do indeed remind him of his nephew.

"Self-confidence, the intensity in his game. Carlos is also very brave and in this he does remind me. We are going to have a great champion for many years," he said.

When asked to name his favorites for the upcoming French Open, the Spanish coach did not hesitate in naming his nephew alongside Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic.

"I think that Rafa if he arrives in the best conditions can be the top favorite with Alcaraz and Djokovic. Alcaraz is at a very high level and is in the improvement phase. I think he will be among these three. Between the two rivals I can't tell you, none," Toni Nadal said.

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Carlos Alcaraz advances to the third round of the Miami Open 2023

Carlos Alcaraz pictured at the 2023 Miami Open - Day 6.

Carlos Alcaraz began his Miami Open title defense with a 6-0, 6-2 victory over Argentina's Facundo Bagnis on Friday (March 24). Alcaraz is aiming to complete the Sunshine Double this year, after defeating Daniil Medvedev in the Indian Wells final last week.

The 19-year-old needs to defend his title in Miami to remain the world's top-ranked player. Despite the absence of Novak Djokovic, who is barred from entering the United States due to his Covid-19 vaccination status, Alcaraz needs to defend the 1,000 ranking points he gained last year to stay ahead of the Serb.

Alcaraz will next face Dusan Lajovic in his quest to become the youngest man to ever complete the Sunshine Double. Lajovic defeated former World No. 1 Andy Murray on Wednesday (March 22).