When Rafael Nadal announced his return to the tour, he made it clear that he had two goals: to remain fit and play in the French Open & Paris Olympics. He had also teased that he’d also be willing to play doubles with young Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz. Two days after the French Open came to an end, it’s been confirmed that Nadal and Alcaraz would play together in Paris.
Alcaraz-Nadal at the Paris Olympics
The Spanish duo are wizards on clay. Nadal is a 14-time French Open champion, while Alcaraz claimed his maiden Roland Garros title just two days ago. With the Olympics being played at the same venue, the Spaniards are definitely going in as one of the favorites for the men’s doubles title.
Spain already has a rich history in tennis at the event. They have won 13 titles (4th most) at the Olympics, with Nadal himself winning two of those. Both medals (golds) have come on hard courts, and one may assume how good he’ll be on his favorite surface, clay.
Alcaraz doesn’t play doubles on the ATP tour and has just 3 wins to his name in 6 matches. But as one of the best net and touch players in singles, there is no doubt he’ll do great in Paris alongside his idol.