French Open 2024: Early exit for the King of Clay, Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal, Tennis, Clay Court, French Open 2024

May 28, 2024

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French Open 2024: Early exit for the King of Clay, Rafael Nadal

When Marc Maury announced Rafa’s arrival on the Philippe-Chatrier Court yesterday for his round 1 match against Alexander Zverev by counting all his 14 titles at Roland Garros, 15,000 people in the stands poured in appreciation with watery eyes. The occasion was so big that Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek, and Spanish footballer Rodri were also among the people waiting to see Rafael Nadal in action on this court after two years.

Unfortunately, it was just not meant to be for Rafa, as he lost in straight sets to Sascha Zverev, the world number four, and bowed out of the tournament in Round 1 for the first time ever. It was a rare occasion yesterday, as Zverev became only the third player to beat Nadal in this fabled Grand Slam.

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022…
Rafael NADAAAAAAL 🇪🇸#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/AaGt51xn8F

— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 27, 2024

After being out for almost 15 months due to injury, Nadal returned to the French Open unseeded and faced a tough draw in Round 1 as he was up against the player who recently won the Italian Open in Rome. Despite giving a tough fight to Zverev and also being in the lead in the second set, Nadal lost to Sascha 6-3, 7-6 (7-5), and 6-3.

The match went on for more than three hours and included some high-quality and mesmerizing shots from both players. In the post-match interview, Nadal said, “I don’t know if it’s going to be the last time if I’m going to be here in front of all of you. Honestly, I’m not 100% sure, but if it’s the last time, I enjoyed it.”

Nadal started the match with a grim service game, which was enough to give everyone a reality check on the fact that he is not at his 100% right now and does not have the preparation to compete in a Grand Slam currently. Although there were a lot of moments in the game where Nadal showed signs of making a comeback and played some excruciating shots, he could not get over the line.

This forehand. This court. A legendary combination 👑

Shot of the day belongs to @RafaelNadal ✨#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/ujb685hK0F

— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 27, 2024

He mentioned that he hopes to be back at this court for the Olympics later this year, which is a motivating factor for him. If he stays away from any more injuries and plays at the Olympics, it could be an incredible farewell to Rafa’s illustrious tennis career.