Roger Federer says it would be ‘crazy’ for Carlos Alcaraz to complete the career Grand Slam by winning the Australian Open at just 22 years old.
ROGER Federer said on Thursday that Carlos Alcaraz winning the Australian Open to complete the career Grand Slam aged just 22 would be “crazy”.
Spain’s Alcaraz already has six major titles but success on the Melbourne Park hard courts is a glaring hole in his resume.
Should the world number one snap his Australia drought at the tournament starting on Sunday, he would become the youngest man to seal a career Grand Slam.
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“At his young age to be able to complete the career Grand Slam already would be crazy,” Swiss legend Federer said at Melbourne Park.
“Let’s see if he’s able to do ‘crazy’ this week. I hope he does because for the game that would be an unbelievable and special moment.”
Alcaraz is aiming to surpass retired compatriot Rafael Nadal, who secured all four majors by the age of 24.
The top seed has not made it past the quarter-finals in four previous Australian Opens.
Federer, a six-time Melbourne champion, compared Alcaraz’s wait to lift the title there to Rory McIlroy’s attempts to win a first Masters in golf.
“It’s like Rory going for the Masters. Those things are tough,” said Federer.
Alcaraz faces home hope Adam Walton in the first round.
The now-retired Federer was also asked about Joao Fonseca, an up-and-coming Brazilian tennis talent aged 19.
Federer spoke glowingly of the teenager, saying he is separated from others by his power.
“He’s exciting, he’s got good aura, he’s a very likeable character as well. I like watching him play,” Federer added.
“The sky’s the limit.” – AFP
