Nadal intends to forfeit Wimbledon for the Olympics.

Rafael Nadal intends to stick with clay courts for a final triumph before potentially retiring, disregarding a potential switch to grass surfaces.

, and Anne Legman

2024 May 28 . 7:54 AM

2 min read

Nadal war bei seinem 19. French-Open-Start das erste Mal in der ersten Runde ausgeschieden.

Sports: Tennis Matches in Progress - Nadal intends to forfeit Wimbledon for the Olympics.

Rafael Nadal, a renowned tennis player from Spain, might miss the grass-court tournament at Wimbledon after his early exit from the French Open due to Alexander Zverev. This decision is aimed at ensuring he doesn't compromise his last career goal - the Olympics in Paris, set to take place on his preferred surface, clay, at the Stade Roland Garros. The 22-time Grand Slam champion confirmed this after his three-set loss.

Given the challenges Nadal faces with the grass season, he commented, "I'm not sure if it would be wise, considering all the issues my body has been through, to switch to a different surface and then return to sand again." Nadal has previously won Wimbledon twice (2008 and 2010). The third major event of the year, the US Open, is scheduled for July 1st, followed by the Olympic tennis tournament starting on July 27th.

The 14-time champion experienced his first-ever first-round defeat in his 19th French Open appearance. With the likelihood of him retiring at the end of this season, his ouster would've been his last appearance at this beloved tournament he has transformed for nearly two decades.

Nadal handled his exit with grace

Nadal accepted his elimination with a sporting spirit. Despite making a much-anticipated return to tour in mid-April and competing in the French Open, his ranking dropped to unseeded status due to various injuries. He had to engage with one of the best players in the world and graciously acknowledged his defeat: "I wasn't that far off, that's what I feel and what I believe."

Additionally, Zverev considers Nadal's retirement might not happen this year. "I still think he will come back next year," said the Olympic gold medalist to Eurosport, adding, "He's starting to play better and better."