Rafael Nadal was moved to tears this Tuesday before his singles in the Davis Cup quarter-final against the Netherlands. This could be the last match of his career.
Strong emotion gripped Malaga, scene of the Davis Cup quarter-final between Spain and the Netherlands. Playing in singles this Tuesday against Botic van de Zandschulp (80th in the world), Rafael Nadal could not hold back his tears before starting what could be the last match of his career.
>> Davis Cup: follow Rafael Nadal's last tournament LIVE
The Majorcan was in tears when the Spanish anthem rang out in a room that was singing “La Marcha Real” at the top of its lungs. Before that, he had obviously received a standing ovation when the two teams entered.
Officially retired in the event of Spain's elimination
While his start against the Netherlands was only confirmed around 4:15 p.m., Nadal, who announced his retirement at the end of the season, bids farewell to the world of tennis this week. For the man with 22 Grand Slam titles, the equation is simple. If Spain is eliminated, Nadal will have delivered his last match. If Spain passes, a semi-final will take place against Germany or Canada.
After this first singles, Carlos Alcaraz, world No. 3 and announced heir to Nadal, then took the field against Tallon Griekspoor (40th), before a possible decisive doubles between the two teams.
