By Alberto Amalfi | @Tennis_Now | Monday, October 3, 2022
Welcome to the age of Spain's reign.
Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal made Top 2 history this week.
Watch: Moutet and Andreev Nearly Come to Blows
World No. 1 Alcaraz and second-ranked Nadal start October as the top two-ranked men in the world.
It’s the first time two Spanish men have topped the ATP rankings.
This marks the first time in 22 years compatriots occupy the top two spots in the ATP rankings.
The last time it happened, Americans Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi topped the rankings back in 2000.
US Open champion Alcaraz celebrated the occasion with this Instagram post declaring reigning Australian Open and Roland Garros champion Nadal the GOAT.
“Two Spaniards at the top of the ranking! Proud to share this historic moment with Rafael Nadal, greatest player of all time!” Alcaraz posted on Instagram.
“Let's go!”
The 36-year-old Nadal has won two of three meetings vs. his teenage compatriot, but the 19-year-old Alcaraz won their most recent meeting in Madrid where he went on to take the title. Will the world's top two meet again in the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin?
Alcaraz has captured five tournament titles this season, including his maiden major in New York and Masters championships in Madrid and Miami.
Photo credit: Getty