Nuno Borges Stuns Nadal in Swedish Open Final, Disrupts Paris 2024 Preparations

Rafael Nadal's Paris 2024 Olympics preparations were set back after a 6-3, 6-2 defeat by Nuno Borges in the Swedish Open final. The loss marks Nadal's first title match since his 2022 French Open victory. This defeat highlights his ongoing struggle with injuries and preparation challenges.

Rafael Nadal experienced a significant setback on Sunday in his bid for the Paris 2024 Olympics, as he was defeated 6-3, 6-2 by Portuguese player Nuno Borges in the Swedish Open final. The match marked Nadal's first title bout since clinching the French Open in 2022, but his serve was broken five times during the hour and 27-minute contest, allowing Borges to secure his maiden tour final victory.

Returning to the ATP Tour 250 event for the first time since his 2005 singles triumph, the 38-year-old Spaniard is gearing up for another Olympic attempt at Paris 2024. Offering congratulations, Nadal acknowledged Borges' performance, "Many congratulations to Nuno. You've been playing great during the whole week, so you deserve it more than anyone else here... It's always special winning a title," he said.

Nadal, who has been battling injuries throughout 2023, expressed enjoyment of his time on court but admitted to facing difficulties on the day. His preparations were hindered by a hip problem and various physical issues leading to a first-round French Open exit and Wimbledon absence. Despite these challenges, he aims to rebound, eyeing the Olympic tennis tournament set to take place at Roland-Garros. Nadal previously won Olympic gold in Beijing and Rio, and will team up with Carlos Alcaraz for doubles in Paris 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)