The 37-year-old also stated that he would only play in the French Open if he felt completely fit and competitive. Nadal said during the 2024 Madrid Open, “If I was in Paris today, I wouldn’t go out to play. I don’t think I’ll be able to play at 100% but it’s important to be able to play for the last time in Madrid, it means a lot to me to play on this court where I’ve had some great moments.”
However, after suffering a 6-1, 6-3 loss against Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in the second round of the Italian Open, Rafael Nadal revealed that he’s not sure about participating in the French Open. Nevertheless, he wants to participate in the clay-court major.
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The former World No. 1 said, “The decision is not clear in my head right now. But if I had to say what my feeling is, it’s that I will be at Roland Garros and I will give my best. Even though it’s a difficult time for me, I would say frustrating, right now I feel closer to trying.”
Since returning to clay in April at the Barcelona Open, Nadal has played eight matches, recording five wins. He reached the fourth round of the Madrid Open after defeating Darwin Blanch, Alex di Minaur, and Pedro Cachin. However, his campaign eventually came to an end against Jiri Lehecka.
Recently, during an interview with television channel France 2, Nadal said, “I don’t know if I’m going to be competitive at Roland Garros. I’m going out to play the tournament thinking I can give my maximum, that I can play my 100%; and if my body is not to win any match, then accept it, but don’t hit the track knowing I have no choice.”
