Rafael Nadal lost his opening game in the 2024 French Open on Monday (May 27) to Germany’s Alexander Zverev. The recently-recovered Nadal gave a tough fight but it wasn’t enough as he lost 3-6, 6-7, 3-6 defeat against fourth-seeded Zverev at the Roland Garros. While many believed it was his last appearance at the prestigious clay-court tournament, Nadal remained mum on his future. However, the Spaniard dropped a big hint at missing the forthcoming Wimbledon in order to prepare well for the Paris Olympics.
After the clash, Nadal said, “Looks difficult for me now to make the transition to grass & having the Olympics to play on clay just after. I have to analyse but I don’t think it would be smart after all the things that happened to my body.”
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Nadal’s French Open first round match was his first appearance in a Grand Slam event this year. He missed the Australian Open but returned for his favourite Roland Garros only to be eliminated in the opening round. After the match, he even spoke about whether this was his last appearance at the Roland Garros. In this regard, Nadal said, “It is difficult for me to talk. I don’t know if it is the last time that I am going to be here in front of you. I’m not 100 per cent sure but if it’s the last time, I enjoyed it.”
Since 2023, Nadal has hardly played Grand Slam events due to constant injury (hip) concerns. Last year, he had hinted at 2024 being his last-ever season, hence, many believe he has played his last at the French Open. The legendary player has had a decorated career, winning 22 Grand Slams out of which 14 came in the French Open (most by any player in the clay-court tournament).
At present, Nadal will shift his focus on the Paris Olympics — which kicks off on July 26 — and is most likely to miss Wimbledon 2024 as a quick switch between clay and grass within a matter of days looks difficult for the 37-year-old.
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