Rafael Nadal, the legendary Spanish tennis player, has voiced his frustration with the scheduling at the 2024 Paris Olympics. After a late-night doubles match with compatriot Carlos Alcaraz, Nadal was shocked to learn that he was scheduled to play his singles match the following afternoon at 2:00 p.m. This tight turnaround has left the 38-year-old questioning the fairness and practicality of the Olympic schedule.
Nadal and Alcaraz had just secured a victory against Argentina’s Máximo González and Andrés Molteni, finishing their match close to 10:00 p.m. on Saturday. The quick succession of matches has raised concerns for Nadal, who has been dealing with a thigh injury. He expressed his disbelief and frustration, stating, “At 2:00 p.m., I’m playing? I don’t understand. It’s 10:00 p.m. at night right now. It is outrageous to me”.
The scheduling issue is particularly troubling for Nadal, who has a storied history at the Olympics, having won two gold medals in previous Games. The tight schedule not only puts physical strain on the athletes but also raises questions about their ability to perform at their best. Nadal hinted at the possibility of withdrawing from the singles competition to focus on his doubles matches, a decision that would disappoint many fans eager to see him compete against his long-time rival, Novak Djokovic.
Nadal’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about the demands placed on athletes during major tournaments and the need for more considerate scheduling. As the Olympics continue, it remains to be seen how officials will address these concerns and ensure that players can compete under fair and optimal conditions.
Rafael Nadal in 2024
Ranked world no.161, Nadal played his last match on the 21st of July when he surrendered to world no.42 Nuno Borges 6-3 6-2 in the final in Bastad (draw).
Currently, during this year the Spaniard achieved an overall 11-6 win-loss record. Rafael Nadal’s latest run in Bastad was the best achievement of his season.
Nadal is scheduled to compete next at the U.S. Open (U.S. Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 26th of August.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
WLWLLWLWWW Now ranked no.3, Carlos played his last match on the 27th of July when he beat world no.275 Hady Habib 6-3 6-1 in the 1st round in Paris (draw).
This year Alcaraz owns a compiled 34-6 record. Carlos has won 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon.
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz clashed against each other 3 times. Their current record is 2-1 for Nadal.
