Rafael Nadal has not played any professional match since losing in the singles and doubles at the Paris Olympics.
Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer (via Imago)
Spanish Davis Cup team captain David Ferrer has provided an update on Rafael Nadal‘s availability for Spain. The left-hander has confirmed his participation in the Davis Cup as Spain faces the Netherlands in the quarterfinals.
Ferrer, who lost to Nadal in the 2013 Roland Garros final, told the Spanish YouTube channel DGO that the 22-time Grand Slam champion is expected to play singles for Spain. Ferrer also confirmed that Nadal’s singles opponent will be Botic van de Zandschulp.
When the draw came out, I sent him a message and told him to prepare to play against Botic Van de Zandschulp. His answer was clear: ‘I will be ready.’
David Ferrer said on DGO Stream
Van de Zandschulp has had recent success against Spanish players. At this year’s US Open, he defeated World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets, securing one of the biggest upsets in Grand Slam history. As a result, he may feel confident against a rusty Nadal, who hasn’t played professional matches in nearly two months.
He’s going to play the Six Kings Slam this month and I would like him to compete in another event before playing with the team. I will talk to him about it in the coming weeks.
David Ferrer added
Nadal was last seen in action at the Paris Olympics, where he competed in both singles and doubles. He withdrew from both the US Open and the Laver Cup due to fitness concerns. He is expected to play in an exhibition tournament called the 6 Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia.
Carlos Alcaraz hopes Davis Cup won’t be Rafael Nadal’s ‘last dance’
World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz hopes that this year’s Davis Cup edition will not be the final tournament of Rafael Nadal‘s career. The 22-time Grand Slam champion announced his availability for Spain’s Davis Cup roster last month.
It’s always great having Rafa around. I miss him. I’m not going to lie, I missed him in the Laver Cup. Obviously, as much time as I can spend with him, it’s a privilege for me. I don’t want to think that it’s a potential last dance for him in Malaga. I just want to … enjoy seeing him on court as much as I can. It’s great support having him in the team. He can bring a lot of experience to the Davis Cup.
Carlos Alcaraz said in an interview
Alcaraz and Nadal have shared a special bond ever since the younger Spaniard’s breakthrough in 2022. Given that both players hail from the same country, comparisons between their playing styles were inevitable. However, Alcaraz’s improvement in recent years has showcased elements that even the 38-year-old Nadal didn’t emphasize, such as quick serving and relying on serve-and-volley tactics.
Alcaraz and Nadal teamed up in men’s doubles at the Paris Olympics but were defeated in the quarterfinals by the American duo of Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram. In the singles, Nadal lost in the second round, whereas Alcaraz lost in the Gold medal match. Both players lost to Novak Djokovic respectively.
The pair were expected to reunite at the Laver Cup for Team Europe. However, Nadal withdrew at the last minute due to fitness concerns and was replaced by Grigor Dimitrov. Alcaraz played a key role in helping Team Europe secure their fifth Laver Cup title, earning 8 out of the team’s 13 points.
