Rafael Nadal, after French Open exit, sets sights on Paris Olympics 2024 as return to Roland Garros beckons
Rafael Nadal has already planned to return to Roland Garros this year, with the 2024 Paris Olympics looming ahead. A former singles and doubles gold medalist at the Olympics, the Spaniard has set his sights on the Games to motivate himself following a hasty exit from the French Open.
On Monday, Nadal's campaign in Paris came to an end after he lost to Alexander Zverev in straight sets. Addressing the crowd after the 6-3, 7-6(5), 6-3 loss, in what was probably his final appearance at the French Open, the former World No. 1 spoke about his return to Court Philippe-Chatrier later this year.
While he's still not 100% certain about hanging his racket at the end of the season, the left-hander emphasized that he will assess his health after the Olympics.
"I hope to return to this court for the Paris Olympic Games, that motivates me and I hope to be well prepared. After the Games, I have to see how I am in terms of motivation, physicality and tennis level to see if it makes sense to continue playing," Nadal said.
The former World No. 1 spoke about his love for the French Open, reminiscing on all the good memories he has had at the event where he has won a staggering 14 titles.
"The amount of feelings I had on this amazing court during my career is just unbelievable. I never could imagine when I was a kid I would be here at almost 28… 38 years old… I would love 28.
"Winning so many times was something I could never dream about. It’s been a beautiful process. All the memories every year have been different but not less special than the other," he said.
"I really hope to see you again" - Rafael Nadal to French Open fans
Rafael Nadal also thanked his family, team and friends as well as the support staff at the French Open for making him feel special at the tournament.
As for whether he will be seeing fans at Roland Garros once again, he left things ambiguous, saying that he's hoping to see them once more.
"What makes me feel so special is all the people at Roland Garros behind the scenes who’ve helped me all the times since I first came here have been unforgettable. The support of all my people there."
"My family, team, friends… everybody who helped me in some moment of my life. I can’t thank them enough. To all the people, the feelings you made me feel here are just unforgettable. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I really hope to see you again," Rafael Nadal said.