Rafa Nadal returns to the courts to represent Spain in the final phase of the Davis Cup 2024, to be played in Malaga between 19 and 24 November. The captain of the Spanish team, David Ferrer, has called the veteran Balearic tennis player to be part of a dream team that also includes Carlos Alcaraz, Roberto Bautista, Pablo Carreño and Marcel Granollers. This team, composed of elite players, seeks not only to achieve victory, but also to demonstrate the strength of Spanish tennis in such a prestigious competition.
After his last participation in the Olympic Games in Paris, where he was eliminated both in singles by Novak Djokovic and in doubles with Alcaraz, Nadal has not played official matches. However, his return generates great expectations, as his presence can be decisive for the team’s performance. Nadal returns with the mission of adding a sixth ‘Ensaladera’ to his list of honors.
The legend of Nadal in the Davis Cup
Spain will face the Netherlands in the quarterfinals, and with the presence of Nadal, their chances of winning the title are significantly strengthened. The Spanish team has a solid group of players in the singles, led by Carlos Alcaraz and Roberto Bautista, while in the doubles, Marcel Granollers, world number one, is emerging as one of the key players, accompanied by Nadal, Alcaraz and Pablo Carreño.
David Ferrer, stated: “There is a lot of illusion in the team and we are very happy to have Rafa”. Nadal’s experience and leadership are vital elements in this crucial phase of the tournament, which adds great expectation to what the Spanish team can offer in Malaga.
A legendary story and its possible farewell
Rafa Nadal has been a key figure in the history of the Davis Cup for Spain. Since his debut in 2004, when at just 18 years old he became the hero of the team that conquered the final against the United States, the Spaniard has lifted five titles, the latest being in 2019. With an imposing record of 29 wins and just one defeat in singles matches, Nadal is a living legend of the competition.
Now, in Malaga, he is looking to add one last jewel to his already storied career. However, rumors about his retirement have intensified in recent weeks. After not being able to say goodbye triumphantly at the Olympic Games in Paris, the Davis Cup could be his last chance to end his career with a golden brooch. If he decides to hang up his racket, Malaga and the Davis Cup would be the perfect scenario to close a career that has marked Spanish and world tennis.