This year showcased seasoned singles players taking on well-rehearsed doubles pairs. Ranking on the top of that list came Rafael Nadal and countryman Carlos Alcaraz. They made waves at the Paris Olympics after marking their maiden on-court partnership. Despite much excitement around their newly formed alliance, they could only touch down on modest success. Thwarting their dream run came the American doubles talent and eventual silver medalists, Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek, who voiced their upper hand over the Spaniard and other singles professionals!
Hopes were high for the “Nadalcaraz” as they managed to emerge triumphant over two teams. The Argentines, Andrés Molteni and Maximo Gonzalez, were defeated by the Spaniards in straight sets. The Dutch, Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof lost to them in three sets. Momentum was high, but Ram and Krajicek put a stop to them.
While talking on the ‘Kick Serve Radio’ with Mats Wilander, Krajicek extensively elaborated on why doubles players seemingly hold an edge over singles players who occasionally step in the ring with them. “It’s just a different approach, a different practice style, the return. I mean, you’ve got the alleys, but usually in singles, you don’t have a guy saying anything that (is) kind of messing with your vision and stuff.”
The 34-year-old further highlighted that when they encountered a formidable player like Nadal, the pair focused on exploiting areas that aren’t their forte when executing a typical singles match-up. “It’s different, view for Rafa and them, especially when they step far back. So we tried to use our strengths play the right formations and and put pressure on them and, expose some areas that maybe they’re not as comfortable with, at the net and so forth.”
For the unversed, the American duo downed Nadal and Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the Games in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4. Although they could not secure a gold for Team USA, losing to Aussie gold medalists Matthew Ebden and John Peers, they did not go back home empty-handed. However, the Spanish bull endured a dissimilar fate.
Nadal had already lost in the singles against Novak Djokovic in their round 2 encounter and found himself disheartened as he left without a special moment. “Well, in the end, a sad day because in the end, it was, I think that the most important goal I had left of the year, to be honest. I didn’t want to end without a special moment and it hasn’t been possible, has it?” He also outlined the key factor that prompted Nole to cause trouble for the Spaniard. “Playing against Novak without having the legs of 20 years ago, is almost impossible.
Already in shambles before suffering a disheartening end to his Paris doubles campaign, fans join him in his grief. Now, there’s only one question on everyone’s mind.
Will we see Rafael Nadal play in Roland Garros again?
Rafa found a daunting challenge as he was drawn against arch-rival Djokovic for one of the most anticipated clashes of the season. The Spaniard was the fan favorite, but winning against the Serb in his form was a challenge he couldn’t overcome. He found a similar fate at the French Open, where he faced Alexander Zverev but lost in three sets.
In a pre-tournament presser, the 22-time Grand Slam champion notably stated that although he was unsure about his upcoming endeavors at the clay Major, he cannot ascertain if his journey ends here. “It’s a big chance that it’s going to be my last Roland Garros. But if I have to tell you it’s 100 percent my last Roland Garros? Sorry, but I will not because I cannot predict what’s going on.”
Just yesterday, it was reported that Nadal will skip the US Open, his third Grand Slam withdrawal of the season. However, he has confirmed he will appear for the Laver Cup. Will that be the last time we see him in action?
