"As soon as Rafael Nadal is drawn against Djokovic, he got physical problems" - Fans react to doubts over Spaniard's Paris Olympics singles campaign

Rafael Nadal has arrived in Paris to represent Spain at the Olympics, starting on July 27. Initially set to compete in both singles and doubles, recent reports have cast doubt on his singles campaign, prompting various reactions from tennis fans.

The men's singles draw of the quadrennial event was unveiled on Thursday, July 25, presenting Nadal with a tough challenge. He will begin his campaign against Hungary's Marton Fucsovics and may face arch-rival Novak Djokovic in the second round. His path to gold also includes potential threats from Arthur Fils, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alexander Zverev, and Carlos Alcaraz.

Nadal entered the French capital on high, coming on the back of a runner-up finish in Bastad. However, shortly after the draw was announced, Spanish sports website Relevo reported that the Mallorcan was doubtful about competing in singles due to 'physical issues' and was contemplating focusing on his doubles campaign with Alcaraz instead.

The 38-year-old's coach Carlos Moya told Onda Cero Radio:

"I can’t say for sure that Nadal will play. We want to give him 48 hours to see how he is improving and how he is recovering and well, if everything goes normal and everything goes well, then on Saturday he will jump (to the court)."

Tennis fans have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to react to the latest developments, with many accusing Rafael Nadal of making up excuses to avoid facing Novak Djokovic.

"As soon as he’s drawn against Djokovic, all of a sudden he got physical problems. Fakest athlete to ever get goat shouts," one fan wrote.

Another posted:

"Ah yes, the famous injury that allows you to play doubles but not singles against Djokovic."

"Nadal has Novak in probable second round…seems a bit fishy to be dropping out of singles now with a “physical problem” but staying in doubles no?" one account wrote.

One user chimed in, writing:

"Not surprising. Don't blame him for not wanting to get embarrassed on clay by Novak."

"We all know he ain’t playing," another wrote.

One fan tweeted:

"Wants to avoid humiliation."

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Rafael Nadal on teaming up with Carlos Alcaraz for doubles at Paris Olympics 2024: "Being with him rejuvenates you"

Rafael Nadal (L) and Carlos Alcaraz (Source: Getty)

Rafael Nadal will join forces with Carlos Alcaraz for doubles at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This will be the former's fourth Olympic appearance, having previously won gold twice, while it will mark the latter's debut at the Games.

Speaking to the media ahead of the event, Nadal praised his young compatriot, saying:

"We have maintained a good relationship, an opportunity to get to know each other better and live together. Being with him rejuvenates you. It's nice to see someone like Carlos [Alcaraz] experience his first Olympic Games."

Alcaraz was equally enthusiastic, calling it a "dream" to play doubles with the 22-time Grand Slam champion.

"Playing with Rafa is a dream, but that doesn't mean guaranteed success. Medals aren't won by name. It will be a great experience, and we must adapt gradually," the 21-year-old told the press.

The Spanish duo has been drawn against the Argentine pair of Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni.