Rafael Nadal faced a tough defeat at the hands of Hubert Hurkacz in the Italian Open, raising uncertainty about his participation in the upcoming French Open. Hurkacz, ranked No. 9 in the world, outplayed Nadal on his favored clay surface with a decisive 6-1, 6-3 victory. Nadal expressed disappointment in his performance, citing lack of readiness and confidence due to limited play in recent years.
The French Open, where Nadal has clinched 14 of his 22 Grand Slam titles, is scheduled to commence on May 26. Nadal deliberated on his options for the tournament, contemplating between acknowledging his current state and striving to improve before the event.
Nadal's loss in Rome followed a previous defeat in the Madrid Open to Jiri. Lehecka, marking a challenging period for the legendary player. Battling physical issues stemming from a hip injury that sidelined him for most of 2023, Nadal is focused on regaining fitness and form.
Despite the setbacks, Nadal hinted at his intention to compete in the French Open, aiming to uphold his legacy in the sport. Fans rallied behind Nadal during the match, showing unwavering support for the seasoned player.
In a surprising turn of events, Nadal's defeat against Hurkacz marked his most significant loss on clay in over two decades, underscoring the challenges he currently faces. The match highlighted Nadal's struggles, as he failed to convert break points and committed more unforced errors than his opponent.
Nadal's future in professional tennis remains uncertain, with the player hinting at a potential retirement after the current season. As he navigates through physical and mental hurdles, Nadal's determination to compete at the highest level reflects his enduring passion for the sport.
