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Madrid Open: Stadium Roars in Unison to Rafael Nadal’s Entry as Possible Farewell Match Brings King of Spain to the Stands

Published 04/27/2024, 10:50 AM EDT

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via Reuters

The Madrid Open arena experienced a completely different atmosphere as Rafael Nadal stepped in to play his second match on the tour. Despite the doubtful status of his current form in the tennis scene, the fans couldn’t contain their emotions and therefore gave their favorite superstar a warm welcome.

Rafa is all set to grab the opportunity to complete his revenge against Alex De Minaur. After his recent defeat against the Aussie back in Barcelona, the tennis star seemed to lack confidence in his run this time, and therefore, the fans decided to compensate for it adorably.

As soon as the Spaniard stepped into the clay court with his kit bag, the fans welcomed him with continuous chants of ‘Rafa Rafa’ and filled the stadium’s air with confidence. As the crowd welcomed the ‘King of Clay’ with such respect, they not only helped him gain enthusiasm but also managed to make him feel like he was home.

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The crowd had multiple reasons to cheer for Rafa in such an adorable way. Because he was sidelined due to multiple injuries, the fans had to wait for two long years to witness his dominance. While his last participation in Madrid dates back to 2022, it is quite obvious that his followers had to miss him and therefore celebrated with immense enthusiasm as he decided to step back.

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Rafa’s dominance on the clay courts is another reason for the fans to cherish his presence. With a massive record of 474 wins and 45 losses out of all the matches he has played on this surface, his legacy stands to speak for itself. As the fans cheer for his presence in the ongoing tournament, his participation in the upcoming major event remains dicey.

Rafael Nadal lacks confidence while announcing his fate in the clay court season

After facing an early exit in Barcelona, Rafael Nadal appeared to have lost hope for his future in the ongoing clay court season. Soon after the Barcelona Open came to an end, the tennis legend analyzed his situation and mentioned that his approach would have been different if it were Roland Garros.

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“If I was in Paris today, I wouldn’t go out to play,” Nadal said. Along with that, he also mentioned the fact that he will be making attempts to be ready for the major event. “I’m going to do the things I have to do to be able to play in Paris. And if I can, I can, and if I can’t, I can’t. I’m going to Paris if I feel like I’m good enough. I’m going to Paris if I feel capable enough to compete,” he added.

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As the tennis star remains dicey about his participation in the upcoming French Open, his performance in Madrid will likely closely contribute to the decision.

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Written by:

Akshay Kapoor

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Akshay Kapoor, a tennis writer at EssentiallySports, excels in crafting pieces that set new trends. His analytical skills riding on the back of certification in Digital Marketing help inject in-depth research as he covers the business undertakings of Tennis stars. Akshay’s articles touch the entire tennis spectrum, from iconic figures like Djokovic and emerging talents such as Holger Rune and Coco Gauff.
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Edited by:

Riya Singhal