Rafael Nadal's French Open 2024 run came to an end early as he faced a defeat in straight-sets to Alexander Zverev on May 27. Zverev beat the Spaniard 6-3 7-6 (7-5) 6-3 in a game that lasted little over three hours with legendary players in attendance.
In the first set, the German dominated by winning 12 of his last 13 service points. In a closely-fought second-set he won after a tie-break. Nadal did not put up much of a fight in the third set as Zverev beat the 37-year-old.
Nadal has struggled of late with injuries which contributed to his first round exit at the French Open. He has suffered hip and abdominal injuries which prevented him from playing regularly.
Nadal has faced 74 different opponents at Roland Garros. He has won the title 14 times. Zverev became only the third player to outfox Nadal at the event after Robin Soderling and Novak Djokovic. He also holds the record for highest tally of wins (112) in men's singles draws in a single major event.
Nadal not ready to retire yet
Among speculations about his retirement, Nadal got a little emotional post his defeat to Zverev. He is not ready to bid goodbye to the game yet.
"I'm not 100% sure if it's the last time but I enjoyed it, the crowd were amazing during the whole week of preparation and today. The feelings today are difficult to describe with words but it's special to feel the love in the place I love the most. I enjoy playing a lot and travelling with the family. The body is feeling better than two months ago. Maybe in two months I say it's enough. But it's something I don’t feel yet,” said the southpaw.
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