PARIS (AP) – Tennis followers from around the globe traveled to the French Open to fulfill Rafael Nadal on Monday and watch him play in his solely match at Roland Garros this yr. And possibly the final one.
Nadal, who gained 14 of his 22 Grand Slam titles in Paris, misplaced 6-3, 7-6 (5), 6-3 to Alexander Zverev on the second day of the match on Court docket Philippe Chatrier.
Tennis followers had been desirous to attend what appeared like a historic occasion, even after Nadal stated there was nonetheless an opportunity of a comeback.
“He’s my favourite tennis participant. Perhaps when he retires, he’ll discover somebody new. However I do not know if I’ll give him that form of love,” stated Fiona Li, 35, who works within the luxurious vogue sector within the Netherlands.
Li has been a Nadal fan since 2005 and is standing along with her buddies on the Nadal statue situated between one of many middle’s foremost doorways and the Chatrier.
Nadal had stated he would retire someday in 2024. When instructed by a reporter on Saturday that most individuals assume that is goodbye to Roland Garros, he laughed and he stated: “Do not settle for it.”
Individuals wished to expertise the environment, and get as near Nadal as they may, whether or not visiting the metal monument, finding out follow or shopping for merchandise.
Julio Parada, a 49-year-old Bolivian who works in banking, wished an image with the picture, whereas sporting a cap with “RF” on the entrance, for Roger Federer.
“Truly, I favor Roger, however Rafa was the hardest opponent he confronted. We made the hassle as a result of we’re conscious that this can be his final Roland Garros,” stated Parada, who attended his first Grand Slam along with his spouse and son.
Barbra Chambati and her daughter Crystal additionally had tickets for the assembly. He had tried to observe a coaching session, however they could not get in as a result of it was too crowded.
Cathy Davis, 75, from Toronto, known as herself a “tremendous Rafa fan”.
“On the court docket, his depth is a bonus. Exterior of that, she’s very humble,” Davis stated.
Nobody knew for positive how lengthy Nadal would keep within the attract these two weeks.
“Irrespective of how far I am going,” Li stated earlier than watching Nadal face Zverev, “I will be there.” “
2024-05-27 21:31:06
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