Rafael Nadal’s uncle Toni Nadal questions Carlos Alcaraz mindset after Roger Federer comment during Indian Wells controversy

Carlos Alcaraz’s recent comment at Indian Wells has quickly become a talking point, and now Toni Nadal has stepped in with a strong response. During the BNP Paribas Open, Alcaraz said he sometimes feels “tired of playing Roger Federer every round,” explaining that opponents raise their level against him because of his status.

The remark did not go unnoticed. Speaking to Radioestudio, Toni Nadal made it clear he does not agree with that thinking. He said players do not change their game because it is Alcaraz, but because they are facing someone better. His words have added another layer to the conversation around expectations and pressure at the top level.Carlos Alcaraz, who has already won two titles in 2026, entered Indian Wells as one of the strongest players.

He reached the semifinals but lost to Daniil Medvedev, marking his first defeat of the season.

Toni Nadal responds to Carlos Alcaraz’s “Roger Federer every round” comment as Indian Wells run ends and Miami Open challenge begins

Toni Nadal did not hold back while reacting to Carlos Alcaraz’s statement. He told Radioestudio, “I don’t agree at all. It’s not a matter of having a target on your back. When you play against someone who’s better than you, you know you have to rush your shots a bit more.”He continued, “When you step out to play, you’re well aware that you need to take a few more risks.

Not because it’s Alcaraz, but because the opponent knows Alcaraz is better.” Toni also gave an example, adding, “I’m sure Daniil Medvedev would prefer to play against someone else and not Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner, but he knows that if he’s up against them, he has to push harder.”Before this debate, Carlos Alcaraz had a strong run at Indian Wells. He beat Grigor Dimitrov and Arthur Rinderknech early on. Then he got past Casper Ruud and Cameron Norrie to reach the semifinals.

However, Daniil Medvedev stopped his run and handed him his first loss of the year.Now, Carlos Alcaraz shifts his focus to the Miami Open. He has received a bye in the first round, but the next match could be tricky. He will face either Fabian Marozsan or Joao Fonseca. Fonseca is seen as the likely winner, and if that happens, it will be the first meeting between Alcaraz and the young Brazilian. With form on his side but questions around expectations growing, all eyes will be on how Alcaraz responds in Miami.