Rafael Nadal is poised to face Novak Djokovic in a highly awaited second-round encounter at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Yet, the excitement among tennis enthusiasts has been tempered by the timing of this marquee matchup, with numerous fans expressing concerns that the schedule disadvantages the Spanish champion.
Despite uncertainty regarding his participation in the singles event, Rafael Nadal put on a dominant display in his opening match against Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics on Sunday, July 28. The 22-time Grand Slam champion bounced back from a second-set loss to secure a convincing 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 victory.
With this win, Nadal set up his 60th career showdown with arch-rival Novak Djokovic, offering him the chance to even their head-to-head record, which Djokovic currently leads 30-29.
Rafael Nadal won’t have a day of rest following his strenuous victory over Marton Fucsovics, as he is scheduled to face Novak Djokovic in the day session on Court Philippe-Chatrier at Roland Garros on Monday, right after the match between Iga Swiatek and Diane Parry.
Considering Nadal has previously voiced his concerns about the “outrageous” scheduling, tennis fans were displeased with the early time slot for this high-stakes match. One fan even went as far as to claim that the schedule was “rigged” to favor Djokovic.
“No day of rest for Rafa, how perfect for Djoko,” one fan commented.
“They’re really pushing Nadal to his limits with this schedule,” another fan chimed in.
“This schedule is so rigged for Djoko, Rafa plays today, no day off tomorrow and not even an evening match for more rest,” said another.
One fan criticized the ITF for not providing the 22-time Grand Slam champion with adequate recovery time, while another lamented the “unfair” schedule.
“Again rafa didn’t even get 24 hours to recover ridiculous seriously @ITFTennis Shame on you,” a fan posted.
“It feels unfair really but what else to expect atleast it’s a day match,” another fan wrote.
Although fans were concerned that the Spaniard might have to play his doubles match with Carlos Alcaraz on the same day, they can now breathe a sigh of relief, as the duo isn’t scheduled to take the court on Monday.
Nevertheless, fans refuted the notion that the 38-year-old is the “establishment favorite” by pointing out his unfavorable schedule.
“Singles and doubles on the same day? Less than 24 hours after today’s match, and Rafa is establishment favourite, hilarious,” one fan remarked.
“No rest time for Nadal, hopefully doubles match is played on tuesday. Otherwise it feels like we can hear ‘Hola a todos,'” another fan chimed in.
“Establishment is with Nole, no rest for Rafa,” said yet another.
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