Despite his comeback not going according to his plans, Rafael Nadal won many hearts. He put on a brave show at the Barcelona Open but couldn’t proceed beyond the second round. While he is going through some difficult emotions of late, the likes of Casper Ruud and Joao Fonseca are riding high on confidence.

Ruud is having a consistent season this year and is looking in prime form ahead of the French Open. Similarly, Fonseca’s French Open chances have received a major boost owing to his good performances this year.

Rafael Nadal thanks everyone for their support

Earlier today, the Spanish tennis legend took to his official Instagram handle to share a heartwarming message. This comes after his Barcelona Open loss where he made a much-awaited comeback after an injury. Sharing a glimpse of his return to the court, Nadal said, “I played and was happy doing it on a track and special tournament, classic and traditional tournament of our circuit.” (Translated using Google Translate)

Further, he added, “A place, a club, that saw me grow as a player and where I had so many joys. Everything has a beginning and an end and I would have liked to fight for the title one more time. It hurts, but it’s been nice to play here always, today too. Thank you very much for everything Barcelona.”

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Nadal will next be seen in action at the Madrid Open, his second stop on his comeback. With the French Open in sight, Nadal would look to get back into his groove quickly, although many believe this is the last year the tennis community will get to see the Spaniard in action.

17-year-old Brazilian sensation on the rise

Ahead of the French Open, Joao Fonseca is making some big strides on the ATP Tour. In the ongoing tournament in Bucharest, he has made it to the last eight after a thrilling win over Radu Albot. With this, he is just one victory away from making it to the qualifiers of the French Open.

Fonseca started the year outside the top 700 of the ATP rankings but consistent performances have ensured his entry into the top 300. Further, he’ll break into the top 250 next week with his Bucharest run.

Casper Ruud moves ahead of the rest

Elsewhere, Ruud is enjoying some of the best moments of his tennis career this year. He has recorded 26 wins in 2024, which is the most by any player. He moved ahead of Jannik Sinner, who won the Australian Open earlier this season. Although not winning any tournament, Ruud already has three final appearances this year.

Ruud will go into the French Open as the dark horse and will look to go one step better this year after losing in the summit clashes in 2022 and 2023. However, before that, he will look to focus on his ongoing Barcelona Open campaign. He has entered the quarterfinal and will take on Matteo Arnaldi in the last eight.