Rafael Nadal enters the Paris Olympic Games with optimism, following a strong performance at the Bastad Open where he reached the final, ultimately succumbing to Nuno Borges. Nadal, determined to make a significant impact in Paris, is particularly excited about teaming up with Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s doubles, a partnership he actively pursued for his Olympic participation.
Nadal, who previously lost to Alexander Zverev at Roland Garros in May, views the Olympic Games as potentially his last appearance in Paris, although he has not ruled out a return next year. His eagerness to represent Spain is evident as he prepares to collaborate with Alcaraz, a rising star he believes will perform exceptionally well. “I am very excited to be part of the Olympic team and represent Spain,” Nadal stated. “It is the most important event in sport and I hope to find the energy and train well.”
Despite his rigorous singles schedule, Nadal remains confident in his doubles capabilities, as demonstrated by his recent partnership with Casper Ruud at Bastad. Although they withdrew late in the tournament, Nadal’s focus now shifts to building synergy with Alcaraz. “I know that if I can produce good tennis in singles, it will also be in doubles – but I have to analyse what happened this week and work hard,” Nadal remarked.
Nadal’s faith in Alcaraz’s potential is unwavering. “I am convinced that Carlos Alcaraz is going to be at a very good level because he arrives with confidence. We will train together this week,” he added, highlighting the duo’s commitment to preparation.
The collaboration between Nadal and Alcaraz has generated excitement among fans, with Alcaraz even inviting suggestions for a team name on social media. As the duo gears up for their first joint practice sessions, the tennis world eagerly anticipates the performance of this dream pairing on the Olympic stage.
Rafael Nadal in 2024
At the moment ranked no.161, Rafael played his last match on the 21st of July when he was overcome by world no.42 Nuno Borges 6-3 6-2 in the final in Bastad (draw).
At present, during this year Rafael has achieved an overall 11-6 match record. Rafael Nadal’s latest run in Bastad was the best achievement of his season.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Currently ranked no.3, Carlos played his last match on the 14th of July when he overcame world no.2 Novak Djokovic 6-2 6-2 7-6(4) in the final in Wimbledon to win his 16th career title.
Until now, during this year Alcaraz achieved a composed 33-6 win-loss record. The Spaniard clinched 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon.
Carlos Alcaraz will compete against the world no.374 Gabi Adrian Boitan in the . In the past, they have never played each other as of now in top tournaments.
Alcaraz clinched 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon.
Carlos won 16 titles in his career: 4 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz clashed against each other 3 times. Their head to head is 2-1 for Nadal. Previously, the last time they locked horns, Carlos Alcaraz won 6-2 1-6 6-3 in the quarter in Madrid (Mutua Madrid Open) in May 2022.
Here are the highlights.