PHOTOS: Rafael Nadal arrives in Malaga for final career event at Davis Cup Finals
The 22-time major winner posed for pics and enjoyed his first practice in the host city Thursday.
Have your tissues on standby, for Rafael Nadal’s last dance is now rapidly approaching.
On Thursday, the 22-time major winner emerged in Malaga. Nadal announced in October that he would suit up for his nation one final time at the Davis Cup Finals before stepping into retirement.
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Wearing a trademark 'Vamos!' t-shirt, the 38-year-old was greeted by former teammate and current Davis Cup tournament director Feliciano Lopez. Nadal signed autographs and posed for pictures with fans who scoped out the perfect spot for his arrival.
Enjoying his first practice at the Palacio Deportes Martín Carpena alongside long-time coach Carlos Moya, it remains to be seen whether the iconic left-hander will play singles or be limited to taking half the court in doubles with Carlos Alcaraz. The two, dubbed 'Nadalcaraz,' advanced to the quarterfinals at this year's Paris Olympics.
In Riyadh during his Six Kings Slam appearance last month, Nadal told media he won’t put himself forward unless he is “100 percent sure” he’s good to go.
“I will try to be in good shape to help the team to win. If I don't feel ready for the singles, I'll be the first one to say,” he said.
“I will not be on court if I don't feel ready to win my match.”
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Spain is seeded second in the knockout phase of the event and faces the Netherlands for a semifinal spot. The two nations are due to square off next Tuesday, with the tie streaming live on Tennis Channel and the Tennis Channel app.
Captain David Ferrer is at the helm for the home squad. Nadal and Alcaraz will be joined by Roberto Bautista Agut, Pedro Martinez and Marcel Granollers, who may also fulfill a doubles role.
Defending champion Italy, which boasts world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, is the top seed.
