Two generational superstars of Spain, Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, were spotted dining and sharing a laugh at the Olympic Village. The powerful duo teamed up with the Spanish contingent at the complex Seine-Saint-Denis on Monday (July 22) ahead of their 2024 Paris Olympics doubles partnership.
Both arrived in the French capital on the back of successful tournaments. Nadal came after finishing as the runner-up at the ATP 250 event in Bastad. It was the 38-year-old's first tour final since winning the 2022 French Open. As a preparation for the Olympics, the veteran also participated in doubles with Casper Ruud, where they reached the semifinals.
Meanwhile, Alcaraz claimed his fourth Grand Slam title after winning his second Wimbledon title. The young gun defeated one of the greatest players, Novak Djokovic, for the second time in a row. He is full of confidence and has been training for the Olympics at his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero’s academy in Alicante.
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Arriving at the Olympic Village, the pair met their fellow athletes from their country and shared some quality time with them ahead of the intense court proceedings.
Watch the video of Alcaraz and Nadal dining together:
All eyes are on the first and last partnership between the Spanish pair at the Olympics
Alcaraz is gearing up for his maiden appearance at the Olympics, while Nadal is in for his last dance. Tennis fans are eagerly waiting for the star duo’s partnership for the first and final time at the international multi-sports event.
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Speaking about his men’s doubles with Nadal, 21-year-old Alcaraz said he would keep his “mouth shut” and just listen to the legendary player considering his vast experience.
"I'm not nervous right now. When the time comes, I will be. And yes, obviously, he's already experienced this, he already knows what it's like to play in the Olympics, to win a gold in both singles and doubles. I'm new, I'm the rookie here, so I have to keep my mouth shut and just listen to him," he added.