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Nadal to Decide Tennis Future Post-Olympics After Loss to Djokovic

Posted : 29 July 2024

Rafael Nadal announced that he will decide on his tennis future "after the Olympics" following a disheartening straight-sets defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Paris Games on Monday. Nadal, who lost 6-1, 6-4 in his 60th career meeting with Djokovic, revealed that he will make decisions based on his feelings and desires once the tournament concludes. At 38, and playing in just his seventh tournament of the year due to injuries, Nadal acknowledged that he no longer has the agility he possessed two decades ago.

 

Nadal, a gold medallist in singles in 2008 and doubles at Rio in 2016, last won a Grand Slam at the French Open in 2022, marking his 22nd major title. His current world ranking has fallen to 161, a stark contrast to his former No. 1 status. This year has been particularly challenging, as he suffered his first-ever opening-round loss at the French Open and skipped Wimbledon to focus on the Olympics. Nadal reflected on the past two years, filled with injuries, and mentioned that if he feels he is not competitive enough, he will consider retirement.

 

Despite the loss, Nadal remains hopeful for a gold medal in the men's doubles, where he is partnering with Carlos Alcaraz. Djokovic's victory marked his 31st win in their long-standing rivalry, which began at Roland Garros in 2006. Nadal managed to show some resilience by winning four consecutive games in the second set but ultimately conceded that Djokovic was the superior player. The match highlighted the physical toll on both players, with Djokovic sporting protective strapping on his knee and Nadal's thigh heavily taped.

 

Djokovic dominated the encounter, racing to a 4-0 lead in both sets and maintaining control throughout the match. Although Nadal briefly fought back to level the second set at 4-4, Djokovic regained his composure to secure the win with an ace. Reflecting on their journey, Djokovic expressed relief and nostalgia, noting that back in 2006, neither player could have predicted playing each other at the Olympics years later. Nadal, while disappointed, demonstrated his sportsmanship, acknowledging the challenge of competing against Djokovic without the physical prowess he once had.

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