In what might be his final French Open, record-holder Rafael Nadal faced an early exit from Roland Garros on Monday. World No. 4 Alexander Zverev secured a straight-set victory over Nadal in the first round at the iconic Philippe-Chatrier court. With this memorable win, Zverev became only the third player in men’s singles to defeat the 14-time French Open champion, joining Swedes Robin Soderling and Novak Djokovic in this elite group.
Zverev started strong, breaking Nadal to love in the first game and quieting the chants of “Rafa Rafa.” He hit 15 winners compared to Nadal’s five, taking the first set 6-3. Nadal, eager to make a comeback, thrilled fans with his breakpoints and celebrated his winning forehands with shouts of “Vamos.” Despite his efforts, Nadal lost a tense tie-break in the second set 7-6 (7/5).
In the third set, Zverev, the 2020 US Open runner-up, sealed his victory by winning 6-3. Nadal struggled to save four break points in the marathon 13-minute fifth game, but ultimately, a long forehand from Nadal gave Zverev the win. Zverev converted six of 18 break points against Nadal.
Nadal, who has been battling hip and abdominal injuries since January 2023, hinted that 2024 might be his final season. The 37-year-old former World No. 1, who has dominated the Grand Slam event in Paris for two decades, last won the French Open in 2022.
“I’m not 100% sure if it’s the last time but I enjoyed it. The crowd was 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 traveling 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,” Nadal said following his early exit.
