Rafael Nadal declines full tribute at Roland Garros despite early agreement, hints at a ‘possible return’ says French Open tournament director

Even in his post-match speech, Nadal displayed some optimism in returning next year to the courts of the French Open.

Rafael Nadal declines full tribute at Roland Garros despite early agreement, hints at a ‘possible return’ says French Open tournament director

Rafael Nadal with the French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo (Via Imago)

On Monday evening, Rafael Nadal gave a farewell speech to the fans at the Roland Garros but with a small light of hope that he would return next year. The Spaniard was up against Alexander Zverev in one of the most exciting first-round matches of the tournament. 

Nadal was down a set in no time, as Zverev flexed his latest form. However, he tried to make a comeback but failed to do so and eventually lost the match 3-6, 6-7, 3-6. Just as he was leaving the court, the tournament director Amelie Mauresmo had a quick word with Nadal on whether to have a full tribute or not. 

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Nadal seemingly disagreed with the tribute but still spoke to the fans about his form and the uncertainty of his return. Hours after the moment, the tournament director revealed that Nadal had previously agreed to a tribute but declined it at the last moment, having noticed an improvement in form. 

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Speaking to Amazon Prime France, the tournament director had revealed the above. Ever since his return to Barcelona, Nadal’s performance graph has only been increasing. From tournament to tournament, the Spaniard has improved drastically. Though he lost in the first round of the French Open, he gave a good matchup to the in-form Alexander Zverev. 

He was moved but also content. He said ok to speak, because we obviously gave him the choice. Everything was still contained because in his head, he wasn't finished. Everything was ready (for the farewell ceremony) because that was the idea. He told us, he told me, but then he changed his mind.
Amelie Mauresmo said

Rafael Nadal’s farewell speech after first-round loss at the French Open

The French Open kicked off with one of the most awaited matches, the return of Rafael Nadal. However, little did the fans know that it may have been the last time they saw the ‘King Of Clay’ playing in the French Open. 

Rafael Nadal post his first round loss at the French Open
Rafael Nadal post his first-round loss at the French Open (Via Imago)

After losing the match, Nadal made sure to leave his admirers with one final message. He addressed the fans in a bittersweet message and mentioned that he is not sure if he’ll return for another season. 

If it’s the last time I enjoyed it. The crowd was amazing during the whole week of preparation. Today the feelings I have are difficult to describe in words. For me it is so special to feel the love of the people in the place I love the most.
Rafael Nadal said in his post match interview

Now, the Spaniard will prepare as hard as possible for the upcoming Paris Olympics. With yet another chance to play for his country on the biggest stage, Rafa would hope to make it count and grab some medals on the way. 

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