Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz faced off in the first Netflix Slam livestream event on Sunday. The exhibition was hosted by MGM Resorts International, and the pair played at the Michelob Ultra Arena at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Alcaraz ultimately won after a close battle.
After a 6-3 first set win, things looked good for Nadal. Alcaraz rallied to take the second set 6-4 and ultimately won the final round 14-12.
“I am honored and very happy to be sharing the court with Rafa in Las Vegas,” Alcaraz told Netflix. “Of course he is the greatest player of all time and his record and accomplishments speak for themselves.”
Nadal had nothing but good things to say before the event. “I’m very excited about my first visit to Las Vegas,” he said. “I am also very excited to play alongside my compatriot Carlos Alcaraz. I am sure it will be a great night of tennis.”
The event was attended by celebrities including Colin Kaepernick, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michael Douglas, Pau Gasol, Lindsey Vonn, Danai Gurira, and Charlize Theron.
Fans’ reactions to the event were mixed. Some praised the match, especially the friendship between Nadal and Alcaraz. As one person tweeted, “Carlos and Rafa were sitting on the bench together and just chatting. Something you love to see.”
A second person said: “Let’s enjoy every second of the magic that Maestro Rafa gives us. What a breathtaking match! After witnessing such an iconic moment, I can now rest in peace.”
Some made fun of the trophy awarded to Alcaraz.
The matchup was announced by Netflix in December.
