The 2024 Davis Cup is underway and with it comes the long-awaited return of Rafael Nadal to individual competition, after a long absence since the Tokyo Olympics. This Tuesday, November 19, Nadal, at 38 years old, will open the quarterfinal series against Botic van de Zandschulp, in a duel that will take place at 5:00 p.m. at the José María Martín Carpena Sports Palace, in Málaga .
Nadal vs Van de Zandschulp: a duel with history
The confrontation between Nadal and Van de Zandschulp brings with it clear antecedents. The two have met twice, in 2022, during Roland Garros and Wimbledon, with resounding victories for the Spaniard without giving up a single set. However, the Dutch tennis player knows that facing Nadal is not an easy task. “Thinking too much about the match with Nadal would drive me crazy,” admitted Van de Zandschulp, who will seek to surprise the veteran champion.
Nadal, for his part, comes into this match with a mix of nostalgia and determination. This could be one of the last meetings of his career, and his intention to say goodbye on the track has led him to intense preparation in recent weeks.
The return of a champion
The last individual tournament played by Nadal was at the Tokyo Olympics, on July 29, against Novak Djokovic. To find his last participation defending Spain in the Davis Cup, you have to go back to the 2019 final phase, where he was key to lifting the sixth Silver Salad for Spain, winning all the points he played.
Despite the abdominal discomfort he suffered after the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, Nadal has shown a remarkable recovery. Last week, he intensified his training at his Academy in Manacor with Roberto Bautista, and since his arrival in Malaga, he has practiced with figures such as Carlos Alcaraz, Pedro Martínez and Alex de Miñaur.
Last minute preparation and unconditional support
In the final test on Monday, Nadal tied four games with Carlos Alcaraz, a duel that confirmed his good physical condition and his willingness to face Van de Zandschulp. In addition, Nadal will have the support of his entire team, who have traveled from Barcelona and Mallorca to accompany him at this crucial moment.
The captain of the Spanish team, David Ferrer, has made the decision to open with Nadal, followed by Alcaraz as the team’s number 1. This duo will be key to seeking a place in the semifinals, where Spain could face the winner of the duel between Germany and Canada.
A dream come true
For Rafael Nadal, this tournament is not just a competition, but a special farewell. Since last Thursday, when he landed in Malaga, his intention has been clear: to say goodbye by playing and giving his best on the court. This Tuesday, his dream will come true in front of an audience that will fervently support him.
The return of the King of Earth is here! The 2024 Davis Cup promises to be unforgettable with Nadal leading the Spanish Armada on its path to glory.
