Rafael Nadal is competing in Paris, maybe for the last time, entering the Olympic Games in one of his favorite cities and stepping on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The 14-time Roland Garros champion received a massive honor during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, receiving the Olympic torch from Zinedine Zidane and passing it to Amelie Mauresmo.
Nadal was among the last athletes who carried the Olympic torch before it fired the Olympic flame, feeling proud in a red jacket with the Spanish flag. The legends Carl Lewis, Nadia Comaneci and Serena Williams stood by Rafa on the river Seine, creating a memorable scene and celebrating the most significant sporting event on the planet.
The veteran left his injury concerns behind and enjoyed a special Parisian night ahead of his Olympic debut on Saturday. Nadal will compete at the Olympic Games for the fourth time, winning the singles gold in Beijing 2008 and adding another gold medal in Rio 2016 with Marc Lopez.
Rafael Nadal carried the Olympic torch in Paris.
The 38-year-old will give everything to achieve more glory in Paris, although things do not look bright for him following the right thigh issues.
Rafa did not practice on Thursday…
