Rafael Nadal gave fans a rare and heartfelt interview with CNN, sharing his insights on the sport’s rising stars, his outlook on fairness in tennis, and what he values most as his competitive career winds down.

During his CNN interview, our champ was asked about the treatment of top players in relation to anti-doping procedures and fairness. He responded:

“From my point of view, I really don’t believe that Jannik, because he’s the No. 1 in the world, received different treatment than another person, from my perspective and from my understanding,” said the 22-time Grand Slam singles champion.

“I really believe in the process, I have been there going through all the tests for 20 years, how the things are strict on every single movement … and I believe in the process.

“I can’t say another thing and I can’t think another way because, if not, I will think that we are not in a fair world, and I really believe that we are in a fair world in this matter.”

On Carlos Alcaraz: “He’s Going to Have One of the Best Careers of All Time”

Rafa also praised fellow Spaniard and Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz, who many consider his natural successor.

“All of us received the pressure from the media and from the hope that people have about you, but I think at the end, we are humans and we know how to handle that.

“I don’t think for Carlos it’s a big deal holding that pressure. He’s a great player and has a great family behind (him).

“I think he’s doing great and he’s having an amazing career and he’s going to win much more if he stays out of injury – that’s the most important thing. I wish and I really believe that he’s going to have one of the best careers of all time.”

On His Legacy: “A Player Who Fights as Hard as Possible but With Positive Values”

As Rafa reflects on his historic career, what matters most isn’t just the titles – it’s the character behind them.

“The results are the results, you know. I won what I won, I lost what I lost, that’s the results and nobody can change that,” Rafa said when asked what he wants to be remembered for now that his playing days are behind him.

“Of course, I will be remembered as a good tennis player, but for me, it’s important to be remembered as a good person, a player who fights as hard as possible but with positive values, being always fair and correct with everyone on court.

“Trying to respect every single moment, for me that’s the most important thing.”

Rafa’s words are a powerful reminder of why he’s not only a fan favorite, but a role model for generations.