Paris Olympics 2024: IOA President PT Usha meets tennis legend Rafael Nadal at the Olympic Village

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha met tennis veteran Rafael Nadal at the Olympic Village in the French Capital.

PT Usha, often hailed as the "Queen of Indian track and field," boasts an illustrious career with 11 Asian Games medals and a near-podium finish at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Her achievements have inspired countless athletes in India and around the world.

Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal, known as the “King of Clay” for his 14 French Open titles, is set to compete once again at his beloved Roland Garros, this time in the Paris Olympics 2024.

Before the competitions began, PT Usha took the opportunity to meet Nadal and extend her best wishes. Expressing her admiration and support, she shared her excitement on social media:

“What a pleasure to meet Tennis legend Rafael Nadal at the Olympic Village. Wished him the best for the games! Looking forward to following his performances at his favorite Roland Garros!” PT Usha worte.

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Rafael Nadal to partner with Wimbledon 2024 champion Carlos Alcaraz in the Spanish doubles team

Rafael Nadal will partner with Wimbledon 2024 champion Carlos Alcaraz in the men's doubles event for Spain. This pairing is eagerly anticipated as it brings together two of the sport's most prominent figures for the first time in a doubles competition.

Despite the hype surrounding their partnership, Nadal has tempered expectations, acknowledging the challenges they face. Both players have limited experience in doubles.

"I understand a little bit the morbid illusion of seeing us play together but let's not think that this translates into success. I think it's a mistake. Carlos hasn't played many doubles and I haven't played many doubles or many singles lately," Nadal said (via Reuters).

We are going to do our best to try, at least, to leave with the peace of mind of having done everything possible to get where we can get (but) obviously, we have not been able to prepare together for a tournament like this, where there are other doubles teams that have been preparing," he added.

Nadal also highlighted the distinct challenges posed by doubles matches, noting the significant differences from singles play.

"Things happen much faster, the reflexes have to be ready, and the movements are not automatic when one has not played for a long time. There are doubles movements that are completely different from the individual ones," he stated.