Spanish tennis player, Rafael Nadal, lost his first match to Alexander Zverev, after his return to French Open, which some speculate might also be his farewell.
Zverev, the fourth seed of German, defeated the 14-time champion with a score of 6-3, 7-6 (7-5), 6-3.
Nadal, known for his dominance like Roland Garros, couldn’t match his usual level of play in front of a supportive crowd.
Last year, Nadal hinted that the 2024 season might be his last.
Although uncertain, he acknowledged the possibility that this could be his final appearance at the clay-court major.
Nadal received a warm welcome from the audience as he stepped onto Court Philippe Chatrier, where he has had many memorable moments throughout his career.
Despite displaying glimpses of his remarkable skill, Nadal couldn’t pose a significant challenge to Zverev.
This loss marks only the fourth defeat for Nadal in 116 singles matches at Roland Garros, with Zverev joining the ranks of Robin Soderling in 2009 and Novak Djokovic in 2015 and 2021 as the third man to defeat him there.
Nadal, in an open court speech said, “I don’t know if it’ll be the last time I’m going to be here in front of you. If it is, I have enjoyed it.”
“The crowd has been amazing the whole week. For me it’s so special to feel the love of the people the way I have felt,” he added.
As Nadal left the court, some fans were in tears, while others stood and applauded, demonstrating their gratitude for the tournament’s greatest champion.
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