Rafael Nadal will be playing Botic van de Zandschulp in his final singles match at the Davis Cup today (November 19).
Rafael Nadal (L) got emotional while singing the national anthem (via X)
The Davis Cup tie started on Tuesday, November 19, with Spain taking on the Netherlands. The occasion carries added significance as it marks Rafael Nadal‘s farewell tournament.
Before the Davis Cup tie began, the Spanish national anthem was played across the Málaga Arena. The entire Spanish community sang in full voice, while Nadal stood on one side, visibly emotional. It was likely because this would be the last time he would hear the Spanish national anthem as a professional tennis player.
Nadal’s emotions for the Spanish national anthem are well-known to tennis fans. At Roland Garros, every champion hears their country’s national anthem during the trophy ceremony.
Nadal has experienced this honor 14 times in the French capital, and each time, fans have witnessed him overcome with emotion before lifting the Grand Slam trophy. However, this occasion was different, as it was for his national team.
As soon as Rafael Nadal displayed his emotions with the Spanish national team while hearing the national anthem, the entire tennis community was moved to tears.
Spanish fans, particularly Nadal’s supporters, deeply felt the significance of the moment in the eyes of the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Here are some of the reactions:
Nadal has been confirmed to play in the Davis Cup tie against the Netherlands. He will face 29-year-old Botic van de Zandschulp.
Van de Zandschulp has a history of defeating Spanish players. Notably, at the US Open, he eliminated four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round. It remains to be seen how both players will rise to the occasion.
