Rafael Nadal Mulls Withdrawal from 2024 Paris Olympics Over Tight Schedule
Rafael Nadal Mulls Withdrawal from 2024 Paris Olympics Over Tight Schedule Rafael Nadal will decide on the day whether he will play his first singles match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, scheduled for the second day of the Games. Nadal is set to face Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics on Sunday afternoon but has expressed concerns about the quick turnaround from his recent matches. He aims to make the best decision to maximize his chances of winning a medal.
Nadal, who teamed up with Carlos Alcaraz for a highly anticipated doubles debut, was pleased with their performance, as they defeated Argentina’s Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni 7-6(4), 6-4. He praised the level of play in their doubles match, noting, “We played well and in crucial moments, we were determined.”
However, the 38-year-old, who has struggled with injuries this year, is less enthusiastic about his singles match. Nadal is scheduled to play against Fucsovics less than 24 hours after his doubles victory, and he is frustrated by the schedule. “A 2:00 pm game? I don’t understand the schedule,” he said. “It seems outrageous to me.”
Nadal plans to consult with his team before making a final decision on whether to compete in the singles match, aiming to ensure the best possible outcome for Spain. He acknowledged the difficulty of the doubles match, as indicated by the white tape on his right thigh, and expressed both enjoyment and suffering during the game.
Speculation is ongoing about whether the Paris Games might be the final chapter of Nadal’s illustrious career. The decision on his participation in the singles match remains uncertain, and fans will have to wait to see if he takes to the clay courts on Sunday afternoon.
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