Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal is set to bid an emotional farewell to the sport with a potential Davis Cup victory in Malaga next week. At 38, Nadal has faced numerous injuries in recent years, making his ability to compete for Spain uncertain. However, the 22-time Grand Slam champion remains a focal point of attention.
Nadal, who led Spain to Davis Cup glory in Madrid five years ago, acknowledged that his role in Malaga might be limited to doubles rather than singles. "First off, we'll have to see how I feel in training and, if I really don't feel I have a chance to win the singles, I'll be the first to not want to play," Nadal stated in remarks to the Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET).
French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz will spearhead Spain's campaign, offering Nadal a chance to retire on a high note. "Probably one of the most special tournaments that I'm going to play. Last tournament of Rafa, I'll be able to be next to him in the last moments on a tennis court for him," said Alcaraz, who partnered with Nadal in doubles at the Paris Olympics this year.
Nadal's illustrious career includes singles gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and doubles triumph at Rio 2016 with Marc Lopez. Despite his ranking dropping to 155 due to injury setbacks, his last title was his 14th French Open in 2022. He hasn't played a competitive singles match since his loss to Novak Djokovic at the Olympics in July, and has only competed four times in 2023.
Spain's potential clash with Italy, led by world number one Jannik Sinner, in the final would be a thrilling end to the tournament. The United States, with US Open finalist Taylor Fritz, are also strong contenders. Nadal's exhibition match loss to Alcaraz in Saudi Arabia in October is now a distant memory as they unite for a common goal in Andalucia.
The start of the Billie Jean King Cup was postponed due to weather alerts in Malaga, following devastating floods in eastern Spain. Alcaraz, ranked third globally, expressed increased motivation to help Spain triumph in light of the Valencia flooding.
Tennis greats and sports stars are eager to witness Nadal's farewell, with Djokovic and Federer expected to attend. Spain faces the Netherlands in the quarterfinals, with the winner advancing to face Germany or Canada in the semis. Italy, last year's champions, are favorites to defend their title, while Australia, runners-up last year, are also in contention.
The final will be held next Sunday at the indoor hard-court Martin Carpena arena.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
