The recent setbacks for Carlos Alcaraz have sparked alarm bells, but Rafael Nadal is quick to shut down the narrative, calling the criticism overblown.
Alcaraz's 17-0 start to the year, which included historic titles in Australia and Qatar, was snapped in the Indian Wells semi-finals and then again at the Miami Open.
Nadal, speaking in Madrid, said the questions and doubts surrounding Alcaraz's dip are exaggerated, pointing out that even the greatest players experience losses.
'So, what? Is he supposed to win all the matches in a year?' Nadal asked. 'That's never going to happen. So there's your answer.'
Nadal, who understands the pressure of expectations in Spain, believes two defeats don't define a player, and Alcaraz should be given time to adjust.
With the clay-court swing approaching, Alcaraz will defend 4,320 points across four tournaments, including the French Open, leaving his world No. 1 ranking under threat.
