Carlos Alcaraz hopes Rafael Nadal’s Davis Cup debut in November will not be the end of his tennis career.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion has been nominated to Spain’s Davis Cup ‘Final 8’ side, which will compete in November.
It will be hosted in Malaga, allowing Rafael Nadal to play in front of his home fans, who have consistently supported him throughout his remarkable career.
But if the 38-year-old puts on his country’s colors again, Carlos Alcaraz hopes it won’t be the last time.
Carlos Alcaraz responds to Rafael Nadal’s Davis Cup departure and delivers a Davis Cup message.
Nadal was scheduled to compete in the Laver Cup, but he withdrew just over a week before it began.
Alcaraz was upset that he was unable to make his debut Laver Cup appearance alongside his hero, but he is thrilled to learn that he will be competing in the Davis Cup.
However, he wants this to be a farewell to Nadal, who has stated that 2024 could be his final season on tour.
“It’s always fantastic to have Rafa around. I miss him. I won’t lie: I missed him in the Laver Cup. “Spending as much time as I can with him is a privilege for me,” Alcaraz stated.
“I don’t want to believe this could be his last dance in Malaga. I want to enjoy watching him on the court as much as possible. It’s terrific to have him on the squad. He can bring a wealth of experience to the Davis Cup.
When did Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal last play for the same team?
Alcaraz would love the opportunity to participate alongside Nadal again after the Olympics.
The two formed a dream doubles combo, and they began their campaign in Paris by defeating Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni of Argentina.
They needed a final set tiebreak to defeat the Dutch duo of Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof in the next round, and they were one win away from competing for a medal.
But the veteran American combo of Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek proved too strong for Nadal and Alcaraz, winning 6-2, 6-4 to terminate Nadal’s Olympic career.