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Shades of Rafael Nadal as 16-year-old stuns tennis world

Young Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz just announced himself to the tennis world after a sensational performance on his ATP debut at the Rio Open that drew comparisons with a teenage Rafael Nadal.

The 16-year-old came up against compatriot Albert Ramos-Vinolas on the clay court in Rio in his first-ever ATP Tour match and produced a simply stunning display against the veteran to triumph 7-6(2), 4-6, 7-6(2) in three hours and 36 minutes.

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The match was full of sensational rallies and the tenacious 16-year-old naturally drew comparisons to a young Nadal due to his speed around the court.

Alcaraz more like Fed?

But despite the comparisons, Alcaraz recently stated he felt like his game style was more like another Grand Slam Champ.

Nadal’s long time rival and friend Roger Federer.

“I like to play very aggressively with a lot of winners,” he told TennisTV.

Carlos Alcaraz (pictured left) looks forward while a young Rafael Nadal (pictured right) celebrates.
Carlos Alcaraz (pictured left) drew comparisons with a young Rafael Nadal (pictured right). (Getty Images)

“My style is more or else like Federer’s.”

Alcaraz is World No. 406 in the FedEx ATP Rankings and is coached by former World No.1 Juan Carlos Ferrero.