“Don’t want to think that it is a potential last dance for him in Malaga” – Alcaraz on Nadal’s participation in Davis Cup Finals

Nadal has been included in the preliminary line-up in the Spanish team for November’s Davis Cup Finals

DPPI / Panoramic

September 25, 2024

Rafael Nadal‘s inclusion in the Spanish team for the Davis Cup Finals in November has once again raised excitement for his fans as well as questions as to whether it would be the Spaniard’s final tournament.

Nadal has not played since losing in the second round of the Olympics. The Spaniard was scheduled to play the Laver Cup but pulled out a few days before.

Besides his fans, Nadal’s Olympics doubles partner, Carlos Alcaraz is also hoping that the Davis Cup is not the last time we see the 22-time Grand Slam champion on the court.

To have the chance to spend more time off the court, on the court, as well, with him, it’s going to be great for Team Spain.
Carlos Alcaraz

Rafael Nadal et Carlos Alcaraz - Paris 2024 — Anthony Behar/Sipa USA/SIPA

“I am going to enjoy that time. Hopefully it’s not going to be the last time for him. Obviously, it’s always great having Rafa around. I miss him. I’m not going to lie, I miss him in the Laver Cup,” Alcaraz told the media in Beijing where he is playing the China Open this week.

“Obviously, as much time as I can spend with him, for me it’s a privilege. I don’t want to think that it is a potential last dance for him in Malaga. I just want to think that I will trying to live or to enjoy his time around, to enjoy seeing him on court as much as I can. Obviously, it is a great support having him in the team. He can bring a lot of experience to Davis Cup. For me it’s going to be my first Davis Cup Final. It’s going to be a great experience for me. To have the chance to spend more time off the court, on the court, as well, with him, it’s going to be great for Team Spain and I think for the country, as well, that we’re playing in Spain.”

Nadal has not given any indication about his future plans but he has often indicated that he is in the last stages of his professional career. The Davis Cup Final 8 will take place from November 19 to 24 in Malaga, Spain this year.