Rafael Nadal opens up on Djokovic-Alcaraz presence in stands for his French Open clash: ‘…

Rafael Nadal opens up on Djokovic-Alcaraz presence in stands for his French Open clash: ‘…means I had a positive legacy’

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May 28, 2024 07:22 AM IST

 

After the exit from first round, Nadal opens about his views on Djokovic, Alacaraz and other tennis stars presence at the stands.

Rafael Nadal suffered a heartbreaking exit from the first round of the French Open after losing to Alexander Zverev. Nadal has a tremendous record at Roland Garros and is called the ‘King of Clay,’ however, it was not his day in the first round, as Zverev beat him in a one-sided clash. The ageing Spaniard fought hard but Zverev looked all determined to produce a big upset. Nadal, who turns 38 next week, showed all his trademark fighting qualities in a gripping match but only managed to convert two of 11 break points against an inspired opponent.

 

Spain’s Rafael Nadal during a press conference after losing his men’s singles match against Germany’s Alexander Zverev on day two of the French Open at the Roland Garros Complex.(AFP)

Spain’s Rafael Nadal during a press conference after losing his men’s singles match against Germany’s Alexander Zverev on day two of the French Open at the Roland Garros Complex.(AFP)

Nadal was beaten for just the fourth time in 116 matches at Roland Garros.

 

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It was only Nadal’s fifth tournament since January 2023 after suffering a hip injury followed by a muscle tear.

 

Several ace tennis stars including Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek were present at the stands to witness Nadal’s magic. The speculations were rife that French Open 2024 was expected to be the 14-time champion’s farewell to the grand slam, but he had since insisted he could not confirm “100 percent” it would be his last appearance.

 

Also Read | Rafael Nadal gets emotional after French Open round one defeat, acknowledges support in viral video

After the exit from first round, Nadal was asked about his views on Djokovic, Alacaraz and other tennis stars presence

at the stands.

 

 

 

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