After experiencing disappointment in Barcelona, Rafael Nadal is set to continue his comeback at his home tournament in Madrid. The Madrid Open has been a home for Nadal over the years, with the Spanish star winning a record five titles and thriving in front of his adoring fans, with his last title win in 2017. However, this time around, the event promises to be different from previous tournaments.
For the first time in his career, Rafael Nadal will participate in the Madrid Open without carrying the ‘favorite’ tag. The Spaniard has struggled to make a comeback in 2024 and is currently ranked World No. 644. Though his ranking won’t affect his performance in Madrid, Nadal’s form is undoubtedly a cause for concern. So far in the 2024 season, the former World No. 1 has only played in two tournaments, winning only three matches and struggling against top players.
Injuries have been a constant threat, and with age not on his side, talks of Nadal’s retirement have increased in the tennis world. However, if there’s any place that could help Nadal return to his best form, it’s Madrid. The Spaniard has achieved great success here, aided by the clay courts and the passionate home crowd. But will these factors be enough to propel Nadal to Madrid Open success?
Despite his undisputed ‘King of Clay’ status and unmatched clay court success, it’s unlikely that Rafael Nadal will win the Madrid Open. The 37-year-old is not the player he once was, and it would take a dramatic turnaround in form for him to be a serious contender for the title. Nadal’s opponents have effectively exploited his weakness, using tactics such as ‘drop-shot’ during Alex de Minaur’s win at the Barcelona Open. In addition, Nadal’s opponents, including members of a younger generation and the persistent Novak Djokovic, have been improving steadily.
Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Stefanos Tsitsipas will also be favorites to vie for the title in Madrid. Nadal has admitted that he is not aiming for a win in Madrid, instead focusing on using the event to prepare for Roland Garros. Regardless, deep down, the Spaniard will be hoping to claim another Madrid Open title before his adoring home crowd, possibly for the last time.
