Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion and Spanish tennis legend, has firmly shut down comparisons between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner to the iconic “Big Three” era he shared with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. Speaking at a charity golf tournament in Majorca on September 15, 2025, Nadal emphasized that the trio’s unparalleled dominance cannot be replicated, stating, “Federer, Djokovic, and I were who we were, and that’s all.” His comments not only reject the narrative of Alcaraz and Sinner as direct successors but also reveal a disagreement with Federer’s recent advice to Alcaraz on approaching his career in five-year increments, underscoring Nadal’s belief in living in the moment over long-term planning.
The Big Three’s Unique Legacy
Nadal’s remarks address the growing tendency to frame Alcaraz, 22, and Sinner, 24, as the new guardians of men’s tennis, especially after their combined 10 Grand Slam titles and thrilling 2025 rivalry. Alcaraz’s French Open and US Open wins, paired with Sinner’s Australian Open and Wimbledon triumphs, have drawn parallels to the Big Three’s 66 majors from 2004-2022. However, Nadal pushed back, telling reporters, “The numbers are there—nobody can take that away. Carlos and Jannik are fantastic, but it’s a different era.” He highlighted the trio’s sustained No. 1 dominance—1,259 weeks combined—and mutual elevation, saying, “We were who we were.”
Nadal’s reluctance stems from his view that such comparisons burden the young stars. Alcaraz leads Sinner 6-4 head-to-head, including three 2025 finals, but Nadal insists, “They’re writing their own story. Let them be.” His perspective, as a mentor to Alcaraz through his Mallorca academy, reflects protectiveness over the pressure of legacy.
Disagreement with Federer’s Career Advice
Nadal’s comments also subtly diverge from Federer’s guidance to Alcaraz. During the 2025 US Open, Federer advised the Spaniard to view his career in five-year blocks, saying, “You have to be focused on the next five years, from here to when I am 27. And then, when I get 27, think about five years more.” Alcaraz shared this at the event, crediting it for his mindset. However, Nadal disagreed, stating, “Obviously, in life, goals are very important… but I never worked on a five-year basis.” He advocated for present-focused growth: “It’s not about thinking in 15 or 20 years. It’s just about going year by year.”
This difference highlights their philosophies: Federer’s structured planning versus Nadal’s passion-driven, day-to-day intensity. Nadal, who retired in November 2024 after hip surgeries and limited 2025 play (a third-round US Open exit to Alex de Minaur), emphasized enjoying the process. “Spain has a rich history thanks to players like me and now Carlos,” he added. “His legacy will continue if he enjoys the moment and trains with passion.”
Alcaraz and Sinner’s Rise
Alcaraz’s 2025 US Open win over Sinner reclaimed No. 1, tying Nadal’s six Slams at age 22 and surpassing Federer and Djokovic. Sinner, with four majors, vowed evolution post-loss. Their rivalry, dubbed “Sincaraz,” has split the year’s Slams, captivating fans. Nadal praised their talent: “Carlos brings passion, Jannik focus—they’re pushing each other.”
Fan and Expert Reactions
Fans on X debated Nadal’s stance: “Rafa’s right—the Big Three is untouchable. Alcaraz and Sinner are great, but different” (@TennisFanatic22). Others saw nuance: “Nadal protecting Carlos from pressure—smart” (@TheTennisLetter). Experts like ESPN’s Mary Joe Fernandez noted, “Nadal’s disagreement with Federer shows their unique paths to success.” The comments precede the Laver Cup (September 19-21), where Nadal joins Alcaraz for Team Europe.
A New Era, Respected by the Old Guard
Nadal’s shutdown of comparisons and disagreement with Federer affirm the Big Three’s singular legacy while championing Alcaraz and Sinner’s potential. As Alcaraz eyes Shanghai and Sinner the ATP Finals, Nadal’s words remind: enjoy the journey. In tennis’s evolving landscape, the past honors the future without overshadowing it.
