Rafael Nadal’s illustrious career may have come to an emotional end after suffering a straight-sets defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp in Spain’s Davis Cup quarter-final clash with the Netherlands.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion fell 6-4, 6-4 to the world number 80 in what could prove to be his final professional match.
The 38-year-old Spaniard, who will officially retire after the tournament, was selected by captain David Ferrer to lead out his side in the opening match in Malaga.
The defeat marks Nadal’s first Davis Cup loss in 30 matches, having previously held an impressive 29-1 record.
Nadal was visibly emotional before the match, breaking down in tears as the Spanish national anthem rang out in Malaga.
Despite showing no obvious movement restrictions in his first competitive outing since the Paris Olympics in July, Nadal struggled to find his best form.
Rafael Nadal has already revealed he will be retiring after the Davis Cup
Reuters
The opening stages remained tight, with neither player gaining a clear advantage in the early exchanges.
Van de Zandschulp initially appeared nervous, struggling with double faults in his first service game as he grappled with the weight of the occasion.
However, the Dutchman soon settled into his rhythm and grew increasingly confident as the match progressed.
The crucial moment came at 4-4 in the first set when Nadal’s intensity dropped, facing two break points against the Dutchman.
Though saving the first, Nadal couldn’t prevent van de Zandschulp’s stunning passing shot that secured the break and ultimately the opening set.
The second set began poorly for Nadal, who was immediately broken and fell to a 1-4 deficit.
However, the Spaniard showed glimpses of his vintage self, mounting a spirited comeback and breaking back after a gruelling 10-minute game.
Despite this late resurgence, van de Zandschulp held his nerve to serve out the match and silence the partisan home crowd.
Spain’s hopes – and potentially Nadal’s career – now rest in the hands of world number three Carlos Alcaraz.
Botic van de Zandschulp beat Rafael Nadal in straight sets
The young Spaniard must defeat Tallon Griekspoor in the second singles match to keep the tie alive.
Should Alcaraz triumph, he would return to court alongside Marcel Granollers for a decisive doubles rubber against van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof.
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Rafael Nadal is dependent on Carlos Alcaraz emerging victorious over Tallon Griekspoor to keep the tie alive
Reuters
A Spanish victory would see them return to action on Friday and extend Nadal’s career for at least one more match.
The Netherlands currently lead the quarter-final tie 1-0 following van de Zandschulp’s historic victory over the Spanish legend.