LONDON — Polish tennis star Hubert Hurkacz, one of the few players to have faced both the new generation of stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner and the legends of the game, believes the level of modern tennis has reached unprecedented heights. In an exclusive interview, Hurkacz shared his insights on how the sport has evolved and how he thinks Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray would stack up against today’s rising stars.
The Evolution of Tennis: A Higher Level Than Ever
Hurkacz, currently ranked in the ATP Top 10, has faced both Alcaraz and Sinner multiple times, including high-stakes matches at Grand Slams and Masters events. He believes the intensity and physicality of the game have surged in recent years. "The speed, the power, the athleticism—it’s just different now," Hurkacz said. "Players like Alcaraz and Sinner bring a level of aggression and consistency that forces everyone to raise their game."
The 27-year-old highlighted key differences between the eras:
- Physicality: Modern players train with advanced sports science, leading to superior endurance and explosiveness.
- Technical Skills: Younger players like Alcaraz have mastered a wider variety of shots, including drop shots and net play, at an earlier age.
- Mental Toughness: The pressure of social media and constant scrutiny has made mental resilience a non-negotiable trait.
How Federer, Nadal, and Murray Would Fare Today
Roger Federer: The Maestro in a Power Era
Hurkacz, who trained with Federer during the Swiss star’s final years on tour, believes Federer’s elegance and shot-making would still be effective but would require adjustments. "Roger’s serve and forehand were timeless, but today’s players return bigger and move faster. He’d need to adapt his net approaches to counter their passing shots," Hurkacz explained.
Rafael Nadal: The Ultimate Competitor
Nadal’s relentless intensity and physicality, Hurkacz argues, would translate well. "Rafa’s spin and fighting spirit would still be a nightmare, especially on clay. But the younger guys hit flatter and harder, so he’d have to find ways to shorten points," he said.
Andy Murray: The Tactician’s Challenge
Murray’s strategic brilliance and defensive skills would keep him competitive, but Hurkacz noted the Scot would face tougher challenges. "Andy’s intelligence and counterpunching are world-class, but the power of Alcaraz and Sinner might force him to take more risks," he added.
The New Guard: Alcaraz and Sinner’s Dominance
Hurkacz praised Alcaraz’s all-court game and Sinner’s baseline dominance, calling them "the future of tennis." He recounted his matches against them:
- Alcaraz: "His ability to mix power with touch is unreal. You never know what’s coming next."
- Sinner: "His ball-striking is so clean. If he’s on, it feels like there’s no weakness to exploit."
Conclusion: A Golden Era of Tennis
Hurkacz concluded by reflecting on the sport’s evolution. "Every generation brings something new. Federer, Nadal, and Murray defined their era, but today’s players are pushing the limits even further. It’s exciting to be part of this." Whether the legends could dominate today remains a debate, but one thing is clear: tennis has never been more competitive.