Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz face Paris Olympics obstacle after Davis Cup announcement
Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have been discussing the possibility of a “dream” partnership at the Paris Olympics, but Davis Cup has put a damper on their plans.
To qualify for the Olympics, a tennis player must represent his or her country twice in the current cycle (2021-2024) in either the Davis Cup or the Billie Jean King Cup.
However, Nadal has not played in Davis Cup for Spain since winning the Davis Cup in 2019, and Alcaraz did not play until 2022.
And Davis Cup has announced that Spain has earned a wild card into the group stage of the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, so none of the players will have another chance to compete before the Olympics.
Into the 2024 @DavisCup Finals Group Stage with a wildcard 🇬🇧
The UK will be joined by hosts Spain and 2023 finalists Australia and Italy ⬇️
– LTA (@the_LTA) 26. 2023 年 11 月
As a result, Nadal and Alcaraz will be banned from participating in the Paris Olympics, but according to Spanish media, all hope is not completely lost for the Spaniards.
Marca newspaper reported that both players can apply for exemption in writing to the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for various reasons.
The 37-year-old may be able to rely on the fact that he has missed several Davis Cups, as Nadal will be out for an extended period due to injury.
As for Alcaraz, he is only 20 years old, which could mean he only recently became eligible for Davis Cup.
There are two spots available for former Olympic/Grand Slam champions at the Paris Olympics, which apply to both Nadal and Alcaraz.
Tennis at the Paris Olympics begins on Saturday, July 27th, immediately after Wimbledon next year.
In the baseline…
It’s unclear how Nadal will return to the tour next year, but the Olympics at Roland Garros seem like the perfect place for the “King of Clay” to end his career. Especially if he can play doubles with his Spanish successor Alcaraz.
Read more – ATP losers: Rafael Nadal and 4 other players who had an unforgettable season
