Nadal Faces Zverev in Star-Studded French Open Opener

Rafael Nadal's quest for a record-extending 15th French Open title got off to a star-studded start on Monday, with arch-rival Novak Djokovic, successor Carlos Alcaraz, and WTA No. 1 Iga Swiatek among the spectators at the Phillippe-Chatrier court.

Nadal, who has been battling recurring injuries, faces a tough first-round challenge against Alexander Zverev, who is in fine form after winning the Italian Open. The Spaniard holds a 7-3 win record against Zverev, including a victory in the 2022 French Open semifinal.

However, Zverev is confident heading into the match, saying, "Ideally I would have liked to play him in at a later stage of the tournament, but it is how it is now. He is unseeded this year, I am seeded. It's a tough draw but it's a tough draw for both of us and we'll see how it goes."

Nadal, who has hinted at the possibility of 2024 being his swansong year in tennis, is aware of the challenges ahead. "At some point somebody told me the draw. I mean, the reaction is something that I expected in some way. When you’re not seeded, anything can happen. That’s part of the business," he said.

The match between Nadal and Zverev is expected to be a close and competitive affair. Nadal's experience and clay-court prowess will be tested against Zverev's power and recent form. The winner will face either Richard Gasquet or Hugo Grenier in the second round.

Tags: #RafaelNadal, #AlexanderZverev, #FrenchOpen, #NovakDjokovic, #CarlosAlcaraz