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Old magic missing as Nadal’s farewell starts with defeat

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Rafael Nadal’s Emotional Farewell: A Loss to Remember

The Emotional Goodbye

Rafael Nadal, the 22-times Grand Slam champion, bid farewell to the Davis Cup with a loss to Netherlands’ Botic van de Zandschulp in what could have been his last match on Tuesday. The 38-year-old played the opening rubber of the quarterfinal tie, but ultimately lost 6-4, 6-4 despite raucous support from his adoring fans.

A New Chapter

Nadal, who has featured in four Davis Cup winning teams for Spain, had won 29 of his previous 30 singles in the team event and his only previous loss was in his first-ever tie in 2004. However, injuries, including hip surgery, meant he was playing only his 24th match since the start of 2023, and the rust was clear as he struggled to hold off the powerful Dutchman.

A Letter from a Friend

Earlier in the day, Roger Federer, Nadal’s great rival and close friend, published a letter he sent to the Spaniard. "Let’s start with the obvious: you beat me – a lot. More than I managed to beat you, the Swiss 20-times Grand Slam champion said. "You challenged me in ways no one else could."

A New Era

Spain’s new tennis king Carlos Alcaraz duly levelled the tie with a 7-6(0) 6-3 defeat of Tallon Griekspoor, meaning a deciding doubles would be required to settle the clash. "I tried to play my best tennis and get Spain the best chance to qualify. I did it for Rafa," the 21-year-old said.

The Future

Win the doubles and Nadal’s career could yet be extended for another match at least, although the 14-times French Open champion said that would not be his decision. "I’m sure (captain David Ferrer) will make the best decision possible for the team," Nadal said. "In some ways it is good, maybe, if that was my last match because I lost my first match in the Davis Cup and I lost my last one. We close the circle."

Conclusion

Rafael Nadal’s emotional farewell to the Davis Cup was marked by a loss to Botic van de Zandschulp, but his legacy in the sport will live on. His fans in Malaga, many of whom wore scarves with "Gracias Rafa" on them, will be hoping for one final bow.

FAQs

Q: Why did Rafael Nadal lose his first Davis Cup singles match in 20 years?
A: Nadal lost to Netherlands’ Botic van de Zandschulp in the quarterfinal tie.

Q: Why did Nadal’s performance suffer?
A: Injuries, including hip surgery, meant he was playing only his 24th match since the start of 2023, and the rust was clear as he struggled to hold off the powerful Dutchman.

Q: Will Nadal’s career be extended for another match?
A: Win the doubles and Nadal’s career could yet be extended for another match at least, although the 14-times French Open champion said that would not be his decision.

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