Despite his initial refusal to have a French Open farewell celebration, Rafael Nadal experienced one nonetheless as he lost to Alexander Zverev in the first round at Roland Garros. Nadal, known as the Clay King with 14 championship titles under his belt, was cheered on by his relatives, friends and competitors at his most victorious venue. Unfortunate timing saw him face off against an unwavered, top form world number four, Zverev, in the first round after returning from an extended injury leave, having lost some of his potent ability.
Nadal put up a strong fight against Zverev, who is a decade his junior and a top contender for the championship title, before finally falling in a nerve-racking match, 6-3 7-6 (5) 6-3, to the joy and melancholy of the spectators at Philippe Chatrier court. Despite stating his refusal for a goodbye ceremony to the tournament organisers, hinting at his possible future return to the championship, it appeared that his wishes were not entirely followed.
The stands close to the players’ area were packed with current tennis greats, including upcoming potential successor Carlos Alcaraz, Nadal’s old-time competitor Novak Djokovic and reigning women’s champion Iga Swiatek. His seldom match-attending spouse Xisca, newborn Rafael Jr and uncles Toni, his previous trainer, and Miguel Angel, the former Spain footballer, were present, alongside Manchester City midfielder Rodri, a familiar trophy achiever himself.
All spectators were granted a sight of Nadal’s signature playing style; from the intense volley trade in the kick-off set, the audacious drop shot away from the baseline in the subsequent set, to the vibrant forehand winning shot to secure a break at the outset of the third set. However, a sluggish start cost Nadal an opening game break he was unable to regain, and Zverev was capable of managing his anxiousness during the final stretch.
This adds to Nadal’s remarkable Roland Garros history, with a tally of 112 victories of the 116 games played, as Zverev joins Djokovic and Robin Soderling in the exclusive club of players who have overcome him at this event.
The victory held great significance for the German and was all the more poignant given it occurred under the impending trial shadow related to allegations of domestic abuse. He has vehemently denied these charges, but they loom large as the trial commences this weekend. His previous meetup with Nadal on the very same court had resulted in him seriously injuring his ankle from a fall. This unfortunate incident had led to a year-long hiatus from his career.
Upon the conclusion of the recent match as Nadal missed a forehand, celebrations were relatively muted. However, Chatrier got up possibly for the final time, appreciating Nadal for his contribution. The tournament director, Amelie Mauresmo, convinced Nadal to address the audience. Uncertainty was evident in Nadal’s address as he hinted that it might be his last match at this venue.
He mentioned his recent string of injuries over the past two years, which led him to dream of returning to play at Roland Garros. While the initial round didn’t match his dream scenario, he felt he had been competitive and had his moments. He seemed uncertain about his future, indicating that there was a high chance that he might not return to this court. Although he was enjoying his game and having fun, he indicated that he could decide to hang up his boots in just a couple of months. However, he quickly mentioned that he was yet to reach that point and was still hoping to participate in the Olympics.
Nadal became sentimental as he recalled his journey, which started as a kid, at the cusp of 38, he couldn’t imagine the success he had achieved at this venue. He ended his speech by expressing a hopeful desire to return, but once again leaving it ambiguous.