Nadal sows doubts about his Olympic succession: ‘I find it outrageous’
Rafael Nadal withdrew from the tournament’s individual table 2024 Olympic Games in Paris learning his schedule for the next game. Nadal, who debuted with a notable win in doubles Carlos Alcarazwas surprised and upset to learn that he had to return to the court the next day at 2:00 p.m., just a few hours after the doubles match had finished at around 10:00 p.m.
“It was a tough match, we enjoyed it but sometimes we suffered,” Nadal said, reflecting the intensity of the match he and Alcaraz played against the Argentines. Gonzalez and Molteni.
The Spanish pair won with a score of 7-6, 6-4 in a matchup that Nadal called “top level” against “a very close pair, one of the best in the world.”
However, the joy of winning the doubles was overshadowed by uncertainty about participating in the singles. Nadal had to face Hungary’s Fucsovics in the second round of the tournament. Philippe Chatrieraround 2:00 pm.
Upon learning of this schedule, Nadal did not hide his surprise and disagreement.Game at 2pm? I don’t understand the schedule, it seems outrageous to me to play at 10pm tomorrow at 2pm.” he said on Cadena Ser, expressing his dissatisfaction with the programming of the matches.
Nadal and Alcaraz during their Olympic doubles debut.
The situation has raised questions about whether Nadal will decide to compete in the individual draw or prioritise his physical well-being.”I don’t know if I’ll play tomorrow, I need to evaluate it with my team. Sometimes less is more“he added, stressing the need to make a sensible decision.
Nadal explained that he would assess the situation with his team before making a final decision. “I will have to go back to the village and talk to the team, I will make the decision that I think is best to have a chance to get results for Spain,” he concluded, leaving his presence in the next individual match up in the air.
The tension between match planning and athletes’ physical performance is a recurring theme at high-level sporting events. In this case, Nadal’s response reflects the reality of the challenges athletes face in balancing their desire to compete with the need to maintain their health and performance over the long term.