Rafael Nadal and the Olympic Games: Deserved place or debate about regulations? © Getty Images Sports/Julian Finney
When it comes to tennis, Rafael Nadal is undoubtedly one of the very best. Should such an athlete be banned from the Olympics? Absolutely not.
The “affair” and the “loophole”
Even before the British media made this an “affair”, it was clear that Nadal deserved a place at the Olympics.
When the rules for tennis players’ participation in the Olympic Games were established, room was deliberately made for those who distinguished themselves by “exceptional merit.”
This should not be viewed as a “loophole” but as a foresight for future scenarios. An example of this rule was evident two years ago when Roger Federer was given permission to compete in the Tokyo Games.
Ultimately he did not take part due to an injury.
The Criterion of Davis Cup Appearances
An unofficial rule states that any player who has competed at least 20 times for the Davis Cup team has the right to play in the Olympics.
Although Nadal does not currently meet this requirement, he has already expressed his desire to compete in doubles with Carlos Alcaraz. Luckily, there is a special rule that allows tennis players who have excelled in the Davis Cup or Olympics in the past to take part.
With two Olympic gold medals and five Davis Cup trophies, Nadal’s merit is beyond question. Who in history has achieved more than him?
Nadal’s safe place in Paris 2024
So Nadal undoubtedly deserves his place at Paris 2024.
Furthermore, there is a possibility that he still meets the said criterion as he could appear for the national team in February. It is also likely that Spain will receive a wildcard for the group stage due to Nadal and Alcaraz’s performances.
During this time, Nadal never declined an invitation from the selector – he was injured for almost all of 2023 and therefore was unable to compete. Overall, this debate shows that Nadal’s position in tennis is undisputed. It remains to be seen what other milestones this exceptional athlete will achieve.
2023-09-27 18:41:43
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