Rafael Nadal Gears Up for a Potentially Final French Open Encounter Against Alexander Zverev
As the 'King of Clay' steps onto the Roland Garros court, a formidable opponent in the shape of world No. 4 Alexander Zverev stands in his way. This match could mark a significant chapter in Nadal's Roland Garros legacy.
It could be the final dance for the ‘King of Clay.’ Rafael Nadal is gearing up for a potentially last French Open match as he faces world No. 4 Alexander Zverev in the tournament's first round on Monday.
Regarded as the greatest clay court player ever, 37-year-old Nadal has faced injuries over the past three seasons. He mentioned last year that he anticipates 2024 to be his final year on the ATP Tour.
How to watch
Nadal and Zverev are set to play the third match of the day at Court Philippe Chatrier, the main venue at Roland Garros. The match is expected to start around 8:30 a.m. ET, according to the ATP Tour.
For viewers in the US, the entire match can be watched on the Tennis Channel. NBC and the streaming service Peacock will start their coverage of the French Open on Monday at 11 a.m. ET.
European viewers can catch the action on Eurosport, which like CNN is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery.
A tough path to 15
Nadal has won Roland Garros 14 times, which is more than any other player, and he has an impressive record of 112 wins and only 3 losses at the tournament.
According to tennis legend Boris Becker, winning the tournament five times is already a significant achievement. Winning it 10 times seems impossible, but Nadal has managed to win it an incredible 14 times. Becker believes this record is unmatched in any other sport.
Rafael Nadal lifts the French Open trophy for the 14th time in 2022.
Rafael Nadal lifts the French Open trophy for the 14th time in 2022.
Christophe Ena/AP
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Boris Becker admires Rafael Nadal's French Open success, stating that it is unmatched in any other sport.
Former world No. 2 Zverev is seen as a strong contender to challenge Nadal for his 15th title at the tournament in Paris.
The German player is skilled on clay courts and recently won his sixth Masters 1000 title in Rome. Despite his success, he has struggled against Nadal in the past, with a 3-7 record against the Spanish player. Their last match was in the 2022 French Open semifinals, where Zverev was sidelined due to an ankle injury.
There are rumors that this could be Nadal's final appearance at Roland Garros, but the 22-time grand slam singles champion mentioned to the media that he is not ruling out competing in 2025.
"It might be my final Roland Garros, but I can't say for sure if it's 100% my last one. I can't predict the future, so I hope you can understand," he mentioned before the tournament.
Editor's P/S:
As a tennis enthusiast, I am filled with anticipation and a tinge of sadness as Rafael Nadal, the undisputed king of clay, gears up for what could be his final dance at the French Open. The prospect of witnessing the maestro's farewell performance on the hallowed grounds of Roland Garros is both exhilarating and bittersweet.
Nadal's legacy on clay is unparalleled. His 14 titles at the French Open stand as a testament to his dominance and resilience on the surface. Despite facing persistent injuries in recent years, Nadal's determination and unwavering spirit have kept him at the pinnacle of the sport. As he faces the challenge of a younger generation, including the formidable Alexander Zverev, the tennis world holds its breath in anticipation of a thrilling spectacle that will undoubtedly leave an unforgettable mark on the history of the game.
