Rafael Nadal's run at the 2024 French Open came to an end as he fell to German Alexander Zverev in straight sets.
Nadal has lost at the French Open just 4 times, with Zverev becoming the third different opponent to take the 'King of Clay' down at Roland Garros, joining Novak Djokovic and Robin Soderling in this impressive achievement. The Spaniard has thrown out many retirement hints, implying that this may have been his last time at the French Open. However, he did tell the organizers to cancel the planned farewell ceremony.
Nadal has inarguably ruled the French Open since winning the tournament in 2005, with a record of 14 Grand Slam titles. However, due to being unseeded, he was handed a tough draw against the in-form fourth seed, Alexander Zverev.
The showdown was a rematch of the 2022 French Open semifinal where Zverev was forced to retire due to a terrible ankle injury in which he left the court on crutches. The German since spent the last two years rebuilding his form and confidence, making his way back into the top four.
The match drew a huge crowd, including many tennis stars with the most notable being Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz. Nadal left the door open in an emotional on court speech. “I don’t know if it is going to be the last time that I am here in front of all of you, honestly I am not hundred percent sure.”
"The feelings that you made me feel here are unforgettable,” he said, “thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Even as a diehard Djokovic fan, it is hard not to respect what Rafael Nadal has done for the sport. He has cemented his place in history, and will be missed by all if he chooses to retire. I, along with millions of other fans around the world, truly hope to see him play at the 2025 French Open and beyond.
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