Tennis icon Rafael Nadal struggled to speak after potentially saying goodbye to the French Open with a first-round exit. The Spaniard was given a testing draw and came up against Alexander Zverev on Monday afternoon. However, he struggled to find a way beyond his opponent - who secured a 6-3 7-6 (7-5) 6-3 success - despite a battling display.
Zverev will now play David Goffin or Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard for a spot in the third round. Meanwhile, Nadal was left to bid an emotional farewell to Roland-Garros but refused to confirm whether it was his last appearance at the French Open. Speaking after his defeat, the 37-year-old said: "It is difficult for me to talk, I don't know if it's the last time I'll be here in front of all of you.
Honestly, I am not sure. If it is, then you have been amazing. The feelings I have today are difficult to describe in words.
It is the place I love the most. French Open 2024 tennis star is married to notorious ex-Premier League flop 'I'm ranked No. 41 in the world – but Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal won't want to draw me' "I have to congratulate Sasha for this great match.
I really wish you all the best in this tournament. 2022 was a tough moment for you so you deserve it. "I have been going through a very tough two years in terms of injuries.
I went all through these processes with the dream to be back here. The first round wasn't ideal. I was competitive and I had chances but it was difficult against a player as good as Sasha.
"It's hard t.
