After teaming up with Carlos Alcaraz to win their opening-round doubles match on Saturday night, Rafael Nadal expressed uncertainty about his plans to compete in the singles at the Paris Olympics, stating that he wants to “make the smartest decision possible to have the best chances to bring (a) medal back home.”
On Sunday, Nadal will play his opening singles encounter against Marton Fucsovics of Hungary.
“I’m not sure what’s going to happen tomorrow,” Rafael Nadal stated on Saturday. “I’m not sure if I’ll play or not.”
Before deciding what to do, he stated that he wants to confer with his team.
Spain’s top tennis players, Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, defeated Argentina’s Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni 7-6 (4), 6-4, in their first-ever doubles match together.
It was deemed “amazing” and a “moment of emotion” by Nadal.
The 38-year-old Rafael Nadal has not stated whether the Summer Games will mark the end of his illustrious career, but there has been a lot of conjecture that it will considering his connection to Roland Garros, his recent injury problems (he appeared to be wearing white tape around his right thigh on Saturday), and other factors. That is the Olympic clay-court venue, as well as the location of the yearly French Open, where he won a record 14 of his 22 Grand Slam championships.
When asked if these Olympics would be his last competition before retiring, Rafael Nadal stated, “I never said that.” I’m not sure. I didn’t choose to say anything at all.
Nadal’s involvement in the 2024 Olympics commenced the previous evening, as he unexpectedly carried a torch at the opening ceremony.
“I’m just taking in these moments right now, playing with Carlos. In doubles, today has been incredible — and yesterday was incredible for me as well,” Nadal remarked. “Savoring each and every second and having the greatest experience possible.”
After defeating longtime adversary Novak Djokovic in the first round of the Beijing 2008 Olympics in singles and the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics in doubles, Rafael Nadal would face the former in the second round.
Playing him is really like the championship match for me in any tournament, but especially this one because of everything he has accomplished and contributed to our sport, especially in Roland Garros. Djokovic stated after winning his first-round match earlier on Saturday, “His record speaks for itself.” “I’m excited about it. Should we have to confront one another, it might be our final opportunity to do so on a large platform. It will undoubtedly be enjoyed by many. I am excited about it.
Neither Rafael Nadal nor Alcaraz, a 21-year-old who just won singles titles at Wimbledon and the French Open in June, are big doubles players. The Spanish pair’s skill won out despite some setbacks against their sixth-seeded opponents on Saturday, including a 3-0 deficit in the second set.
Which of the two players is in charge out there? was the question posed to Alcaraz by a reporter.
With a smile, Alcaraz continued, “You should ask him.” Well, of course Rafa is. Playing with him is simple. He exudes a great deal of enthusiasm. It was amazing what he accomplished throughout the match’s tough stages. Of course, I also attempt to pick some tips from him.
Assuming that the enthusiastic audience at Court Philippe Chatrier during his recent appearance was any guide, Rafael Nadal is going to receive the loudest possible applause for the whole of his Olympic career.
Despite having had hip surgery and an abdominal muscle issue that have limited his playing time over the past two seasons and losing to eventual runner-up Alexander Zverev in the opening round of this year’s French Open, Rafael Nadal appeared to be in good health on Saturday. However, compared to singles, doubles naturally demands far less activity and endurance.
Nevertheless, Nadal seemed to be moving okay and displayed his amazing volleying skills, including a back-to-the-net, over-the-shoulder, no-look winner in the opening set. He whirled and pounded the air after the point. Crowds let out wild celebrations.
Whether they were winning or losing, Nadal and Alcaraz often slapped hands. Occasionally, during action pauses, Nadal would also pat his much younger companion on the shoulder.
Nadal raised both fists as the match came to a close with a volley off Alcaraz’s racket. “Vamos!” Alcaraz exclaimed as he turned to face his new companion.