Rafael Nadal’s much-anticipated return to the French Open concluded with a first-round loss to Alexander Zverev. The 14-time Roland Garros champion, who hinted this season might be his last, fell 6-3, 7-6 (7-5), 6-3 to the fourth-seeded German.
Despite being a 22-time Grand Slam winner and a legend on the Parisian clay, Nadal couldn’t match the level of play that has defined his career at this venue. At 37, Nadal acknowledged that this could potentially be his final appearance at the French Open.
Nadal received a thunderous reception upon entering Court Philippe Chatrier, a site of many of his career highlights. Although he showed glimpses of his former brilliance, it wasn’t enough to overcome the in-form Zverev.
This defeat marks only Nadal’s fourth in 116 singles matches at Roland Garros. Zverev joins an exclusive group, alongside Robin Soderling and Novak Djokovic, as the only players to have defeated Nadal here.
“I don’t know if it’ll be the last time I’m going to be here in front of you. If it is, I have enjoyed it,” Nadal shared with the crowd. “The crowd has been amazing the whole week. It’s so special to feel the love of the people the way I have felt.”
Nadal’s Tough Draw and Preparation
Excitement for Nadal’s return was palpable, with fans arriving early, many donning Spanish flags and “Gracias Rafa” shirts. Despite a challenging lead-up, including a defeat by Hubert Hurkacz in Rome, Nadal expressed confidence before the tournament, citing his strong practice sessions.
Unseeded for the first time at Roland Garros due to an extended injury hiatus, Nadal faced a tough draw. Zverev, a strong clay-courter and a major title contender, proved a formidable opponent.
Zverev, who retired from his semi-final match against Nadal at the 2022 French Open due to an ankle injury, came into this match in excellent form, having won the Rome title recently.
Match Summary
The match started ominously for Nadal, with Zverev breaking in the first game. Despite the crowd’s encouragement, mistakes from Nadal, including a double fault, helped Zverev take the first set.
Nadal fought back in the second set, taking a 4-2 lead, but Zverev quickly regained control, breaking back to level the set. The German’s composure and precise ball-striking ultimately secured him the set in a tiebreak.
High-profile spectators, including Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek, and Carlos Alcaraz, watched as Nadal took an early break in the third set, only to see Zverev storm back to secure the match.
Nadal reflected, “The first round wasn’t the ideal one, but I was competitive, I had my chances. But it was not enough against a great player.”
Looking Forward
As Nadal left the court to a standing ovation, the crowd’s appreciation underscored his legendary status at Roland Garros. Whether this marks the end of his storied career at the French Open remains uncertain, but his legacy at this tournament is unquestionable.
