French Star Claims Tennis Alone Won’t Do—What Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz Must Do to Match Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s Greatness
Gasquet Weighs in on Sinner & Alcaraz’s Legacy Pursuit
French tennis veteran Richard Gasquet has acknowledged the rising rivalry between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz as they position themselves to succeed the legendary “Big 3.” However, the former US Open semifinalist believes the duo still has significant milestones to reach before attaining the iconic status of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Alcaraz and Sinner are already among the sport’s biggest stars, boasting a combined seven Grand Slam titles. Federer retired from professional tennis in 2022, while Nadal bid farewell to the sport in October last year.
“Alcaraz has something special, but his aura isn’t at Federer’s level yet. That kind of presence takes time and a proven track record to build. Federer and Nadal are not just tennis legends—they’re global icons. Over the past two decades, if you list the biggest athletes in the world alongside Messi, Ronaldo, Usain Bolt, or NBA stars, Federer and Nadal are right there. Can we say the same about Alcaraz and Sinner one day? Certainly—but not yet. Tennis alone isn’t enough; it’s also about personality, presence, technique, and what you give back to the sport. Federer had everything.”
— Richard Gasquet on the UTS Tour Podcast
Alcaraz burst onto the scene in 2022, becoming the youngest player in history to finish a season as World No. 1. He was also just the second player outside the Big 3 to achieve that feat since 2004.
Meanwhile, Sinner’s rise has been equally impressive. In June 2024, he became the first Italian ever to reach World No. 1. Despite serving a three-month suspension, he has managed to retain his top ranking and remains the reigning champion of both the Australian Open and the US Open.
Nadal’s Academy Stake Sold in Major Business Move
In a strategic business decision, Rafael Nadal’s investment company, ASPEMIR, has sold 44.9% of Centre Esportiu Manacor—better known as the Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar—to investment firm GPF. The academy is a world-renowned training facility for aspiring and professional tennis players.
Led by Nadal’s mother, Ana María Parera, ASPEMIR has witnessed remarkable growth. The company’s net assets surged from €237 million in 2022 to €341.4 million in 2023, marking a 44% increase.
ASPEMIR’s investments continue to expand across real estate, hospitality, and entertainment. In February 2024, the firm increased its stake in Mabel Capital Global to 50%, reinforcing its strategy to diversify its portfolio and secure long-term financial stability.
Federer Embraces Retirement with Alpine Adventures
Since retiring from professional tennis at the Laver Cup in 2022, Roger Federer has embraced a vibrant post-tennis life. From attending Formula 1 races and playing basketball at the Met Gala to enjoying Disneyland trips, the Swiss maestro has been relishing his newfound freedom.
Recently, Federer shared pictures from a ski trip in the Alpine mountains with his wife, Mirka, and their dog. A lifelong skiing enthusiast, Federer continues to indulge in one of his favorite pastimes.
In 2024, Federer even hit the slopes with Lindsey Vonn, the four-time World Cup-winning ski champion, who retired in 2019. Their meeting was more than just a casual outing—it was an inspiring moment between two sporting greats.
Even in retirement, Federer remains deeply connected to the sports world, creating lasting memories while pursuing new adventures.
