Rafael Nadal's illustrious career may have reached its twilight as he suffered a stunning defeat to Botic Van De Zandschulp in the Davis Cup Finals. The 22-time Grand Slam champion's 29-match singles winning streak in the competition was snapped by the world No. 80, putting Spain on the brink of elimination.
Nadal, playing in front of his home crowd in Malaga, started nervously, but gradually settled into the match. However, Van De Zandschulp seized the initiative in the first set, breaking Nadal's serve in the seventh game and holding on to take the set 6-4.
The second set followed a similar pattern, with Van De Zandschulp breaking Nadal's serve early on. Nadal fought back to break back, but Van De Zandschulp regained the advantage and eventually served out the match 6-4.
The defeat leaves Spain facing an uphill battle to reach the semifinals. World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz will need to defeat Tallon Griekspoor in the second singles match, and Spain will likely need to win the doubles match as well.
Nadal's loss has raised questions about his future. The 38-year-old has been battling injuries in recent years, and this defeat may signal the end of his competitive career. If Spain fails to win the next two rubbers, Tuesday's match will be Nadal's last.
Tags: #RafaelNadal, #DavisCup, #BoticVanDeZandschulp, #Spain, #Netherlands
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