Rafael Nadal picked against all odds to defeat Alexander Zverev in "most awaited" French Open 1R clash by Paul McNamee

Paul McNamee has made his prediction for the "most awaited" first-round match at the 2024 French Open between Rafael Nadal and Alexander Zverev. The former tennis pro believes the Spaniard will come out on top despite the odds.

Nadal and Zverev are set to face off on May 27, in a rematch of their semifinal encounter at Roland Garros two years ago where the German retired mid-match due to an ankle injury.

This matchup is the toughest challenge for the 37-year-old in 2024, particularly because his form hasn't been optimal since returning from a hip injury sustained at the 2023 Australian Open.

However, McNamee is confident in Rafael Nadal's ability to triumph in his pursuit of a record 15th title at the Claycourt Slam. The Aussie asserted that despite Alexander Zverev being the "firm favorite," choosing him over the 'King of Clay' on the red dirt wouldn't be wise.

"Today here in Paris is perhaps the most awaited 1st rd. match I can ever remember," McNamee wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "Zverev has fitness, confidence and form in his favour, so he goes in as firm favourite, understandably. My pick….Nadal. I can never pick against Nadal on clay. That’s it."

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"When you consider where Rafael Nadal was, he got the better draw" - Paul McNamee

Rafael Nadal

When the draw for the 2024 French Open was unveiled on May 23, the tennis world was shocked to see Rafael Nadal facing Alexander Zverev in the first round. However, that wasn't the case with Paul McNamee.

The Aussie reasoned that given Nadal's situation, facing either Zverev or Carlos Alcaraz was to be expected, leading him to conclude that the 22-time Major champion got lucky.

"When you consider where he was in the draw that it was either Zverev or Alcaraz, he got the better draw!" McNamee wrote on X.

McNamee continued:

"Nadal v Zverev on Monday, albeit most of top half is Tuesday. So winner will get two days off… that’s a handy situation for the winner of that battle."

If Nadal progresses to the quarterfinals, he could face Daniil Medvedev, followed by his arch-rival Novak Djokovic in the semifinals. Afterwards, a potential championship showdown against either Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner is on the cards.

Despite initially suggesting that this year would mark his farewell in Paris, the 37-year-old has recently sent mixed signals about his retirement plans, leaving his future participation uncertain.