As the 2020 Tokyo Olympics kicked off in fine fashion, another historic moment was being recorded elsewhere. The Plava Laguna Croatia Open saw some epic battles but none like its final. 18-year-old Spanish international, Carlos Alcaraz, went head to head with French maestro Richard Gasquet, in a bid for the title.

As both looked game set ready, they promised an enthralling outing. However, what came following was beyond everyone’s expectations.

The crowd was up on their feet as Carlos Alcaraz whitewashed his opponent in straight sets and became the youngest Spanish champion on the ATP tour, since the legendary Rafael Nadal.

He stunned the fans with a dominant display and won the title in Umag, in emphatic fashion. Fans couldn’t help but reminisce over the memories of a young Nadal, who was just 8 days younger than Carlos when he won his first of 88 titles, back in 2004.

Speaking of his emotions following the historic feat, he said, “It’s great. It’s a lot of emotions together, I’m very happy with this win and the week I had. This is my first ATP, so I’m going to enjoy it very much.” 

“The truth is that I would like to win all”- Carlos Alcaraz

Despite being his first ATP final, it took Carlos just over an hour of play to record his historic win. Reflecting upon his triumphant campaign, he said, “I had a lot of good moments this week where I faced great players and grew a lot. It was a great experience, which will be very useful for the future. I want to dedicate it to my team and my whole family, but if I have to choose a person I should do it between my grandfather and Juan Carlos [Ferrero].”

Undoubtedly, the young Spaniard’s triumph made world headlines. His record made him an instant fan favorite, who couldn’t help but wonder what’s next for the junior champion.

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Bringing ease to fans, he said, “I don’t know why I like them all. Also, I haven’t played the US Open yet, where I really like the atmosphere, the courts and the stadiums. The truth is that I would like to win all.”

The determined Spaniard moves onto his next challenge right away. Without giving into celebrations, he said, “Don’t have much time to celebrate it because tomorrow I have another championship [Kitzbuhel] that I have to be totally focused on. When I won the Challengers, the same thing happened. That’s why I’ll enjoy tonight with my team, but knowing I can’t get too confused because I have to be focused for what’s to come. ” 

Watch this story: Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Others Emotional Moments at Olympic Games

Richard Gasquet was left in awe

Carlos’ astonishing victory impressed both fans and rivals; notably, his French counterpart, who was the most impressed with the Spaniard’s display. Richard Gasquet said, “He’s playing unbelievable. He’s only 18 and of course he has a great future and I just couldn’t play at his level and his intensity. That was the key of the match and he didn’t lose a point. He played well, very solid. He’s a great player.” 

Carlos Alcaraz has the World at his feet right now. Courtesy of his unbelievable record, he has made headlines and gained fans all across the globe.

However, it will be interesting to see how well Carlos can keep up to the expectations of those who he has impressed now. Is there indeed a bright future for the Spaniard or was his performance just one-game fame?

“Nobody Can Compare to Rafa”: Richard Gasquet Shuts Down Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal Comparisons