The 22-time major winner posed for photos and enjoyed his first practice in the host city on Thursday.
Have your tissues ready, because Rafael Nadal’s last dance is almost approaching.
On Thursday, the 22-time major winner appeared in Malaga. In October, Nadal revealed that he would play for his country one last time in the Davis Cup Final before retiring.
Feliciano Lopez, a former teammate and current Davis Cup tournament director, greeted the 38-year-old as he wore his customary ‘Vamos!’ t-shirt. Nadal signed autographs and posed for photos with fans who had scouted out the ideal location for his arrival.
A great photo opportunity to cherish for this supporter
Enjoying his first practice at the Palacio Deportes Martín Carpena alongside long-time coach Carlos Moya, it remains to be seen whether the iconic left-hander will play singles or be limited to taking half the court in doubles with Carlos Alcaraz. The two, dubbed ‘Nadalcaraz,’ advanced to the quarterfinals at this year’s Paris Olympics.
In Riyadh during his Six Kings Slam appearance last month, Nadal told media he won’t put himself forward unless he is “100 percent sure” he’s good to go.
“I will try to be in good shape to help the team to win. If I don’t feel ready for the singles, I’ll be the first one to say,” he said.
“I will not be on court if I don’t feel ready to win my match.”
Spain is seeded second in the elimination phase of the event and will face the Netherlands for a semifinal spot. The two nations will face battle next Tuesday, with the match broadcast live on Tennis Channel and the Tennis Channel app.
One of the many tributes to come for Rafa
The home squad is led by captain David Ferrer. Nadal and Alcaraz will be joined by Roberto Bautista Agut, Pedro Martinez, and Marcel Granollers, who may potentially play doubles.
Italy, the defending champion with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, is the top seed.
