Rafael Nadal has returned to compete at the French Open for the first time since his triumph at the venue two years ago. He received a tougher than expected opponent right off the bat, as he drew World No. 4 Alexander Zverev in his opener.
The Spaniard took to the court for his first-round match on Monday, May 27. He stepped onto Court Philippe Chatrier rocking a blue t-shirt and white shorts combo, with his shoes being the same shade as his t-shirt.
The t-shirt, known as the 'Rafa Men's Dri-FIT ADV Short Sleeve Tennis Top', can be purchased on the Nike website for $105. The color of the top is described as 'Dusty Cactus', and is made from sustainable materials as well. It's also available in two more shades, 'Lilac Bloom', and white.
The shorts, officially tagged as the "Rafa Men's Dri-Fit ADV 7" Tennis Shorts", are priced at $80. They are available in five shades - white, 'Action Green', 'Barely Grape', 'Space Purple' and 'Glacier Blue'.
The shoes are a combo of 'Dusty Cactus' and 'Glacier Blue', with the iconic Nike swoosh logo in white. They're part of the NikeCourt Zoom Vapor Cage 4 Rafa collection, and are available for $160. The shoes are custom made for the Spaniard, and fans can don the same to honor him as well.
Nadal's 2024 French Open look can be found here - the official Nike (US) store.
Rafael Nadal in danger of losing in the first round of the French Open for the first time
Rafael Nadal has an impressive 112-3 record at the French Open. His earliest exit from the tournament came in 2016 when he withdrew before the third round due to an injury. He has always made it past the opening hurdle in Paris, but that could change this time.
Alexander Zverev recently won the Italian Open and has performed well at the French Open in the past. He's a three-time semifinalist, making the last-four for the past three years. The Spaniard couldn't have asked for a tougher opponent to begin his French Open campaign.
Nadal and Zverev's previous encounter also took place at the French Open. They crossed paths in the semifinals two years ago and were engrossed in a thrilling battle.
Unfortunately, the German sustained a major ankle injury, which forced him to throw in the towel. Nadal went on to win the title, his 22nd Major crown, with a straight-sets win over Casper Ruud in the final.
What is the foot injury that has troubled Rafael Nadal over the years? Check here