Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz moderated their optimism regarding Spain's formidable duo on Wednesday, as they anticipated their joint appearance at the Paris Olympics. Alcaraz, victor of the recent French Open and Wimbledon, and Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion who has faced injury challenges for the past two years, are the focal points of the Olympic tennis event, which commences on Saturday and concludes on August 4.
Nadal, aged 38, cautioned against high expectations, stating, "I recognize the fascination in seeing us compete together, but let's not assume this guarantees success. Carlos has limited doubles experience, and I have been inactive in both singles and doubles recently." He continued, "We will strive to do our utmost, ensuring we leave with the satisfaction of having given our all to reach our potential (but) it's clear we haven't had the chance to train together for an event like this, unlike other doubles teams who have been preparing."
The ex-world number one, anticipating his retirement at the end of the year after a hip injury sidelined him for most of 2023, acknowledged the challenges of adapting to a different format. "The pace is quicker, reflexes must be sharp, and movements aren't instinctive when one hasn't played in a while. Doubles movements are entirely distinct from singles," the Spaniard explained.
Alcaraz, 21, expressed confidence in the advantage of playing on clay, where he triumphed recently. "I haven't participated in many doubles tournaments, but the excitement of returning to Roland Garros, to these courts I've always relished playing on... eases the transition," he noted. "We also have training days, both individually and in doubles, to best adapt once more, for me to regain confidence on clay and start the tournament strongly."
Nadal, who secured Olympic singles gold in 2008 and doubles gold in 2016, emphasized the unique significance of the Games over Grand Slams. "I regrettably missed Tokyo and London due to injury, which affected me more than missing Grand Slams," he reflected. "These are singular experiences, few in a career. Other tournaments are crucial, but we encounter them annually. I highly value being here."
