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Rafael Nadal graciously returned to the Bastad clay courts at the 2024 Nordea Open, marking his first appearance since winning the tournament back in 2005. The 22-time Grand Slam winner looked impressive as he swept past Leo Borg in the Round of 32 at the Swedish Open, winning 6-3, 6-4.
This also marked the return of the Spaniard since his disappointing exit from the 2024 French Open. Additionally, Nadal and Casper Ruud prevailed over Miguel Angel Reyes Varela and Guido Andreozzi in their first-round doubles match, winning 6-1, 6-4.
Speaking on his comeback to Bastad, Nadal recalled his past days here.
"I have great memories from this place from 2003, 2004, and 2005, so I am enjoying this week and hopefully can keep going," he said.
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The Spaniard was later spotted at the Bastad players' dinner, along with his team and other participating players at the Swedish Open.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner donned a chic look as he breezed off with his team after a compelling victory on the court.
Nadal and Casper Ruud will now gear up to face the duo of Theo Arribage and Roman Safiullin in the quarterfinals of men's doubles. The Spaniard will also compete in the Round of 16 of men's singles as he is set to face Cameron Norrie on July 18.
Rafael Nadal returns to the US Open 2024
Rafael Nadal is set to return to the US Open as he secured a spot through a protected ranking after missing out on the tournament last year. He last won the US Open in 2019 and has only participated in the 2022 edition since then, missing the tournament thrice in the last four years.
Although Rafa's recent victory on clay at the 2024 Nordea Open demonstrated his enduring talent, there are still doubts over his form on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows.
The Spaniard has won the tournament on four occasions, securing victories in 2010, 2013, and 2017, and his most recent win in 2019. This will mark his return to a Grand Slam since his defeat to Alexander Zverev in the opening round of the 2024 French Open. The 38-year-old withdrew from the 2024 Wimbledon Championships and currently has his eyes set on the Paris Olympics.
The 2024 edition of the US Open is set to start on August 26 and will continue till September 8.
What is the foot injury that has troubled Rafael Nadal over the years? Check here
