The Spanish Davis Cup team was gearing up for a fabulous Davis Cup run where they would have tried to defend their trophy from 2019 in Madrid in front of native fans.
The Spaniards compiled a very strong team that featured experienced veterans in Bautista Agut and Carreno Busta along with x-factor Carlos Alcaraz who was capable of beating anyone in one match. They also had a solid backing in Granollers who is one of the better doubles players in the world. Playing in front of the native fans in Madrid would have helped as well but things turned unlucky a few days ago.
First, it was Bautista Agut who got injured being replaced by Albert Ramos before Carlos Alcaraz tested positive for Covid-19. When the news of Alcaraz testing positive broke out Rafael Nadal took to Twitter to send encouragement to his compatriots underlining his hope that there would be no more positive tests.
He wrote:
“Much encouragement to the entire Spanish team after the news we received today. When something like this happens, the competition takes a back seat. The most important thing is health and I hope there are no more cases. A hug to all!”
It's a much-needed reminder by Nadal that the pandemic is still ongoing and that the health and safety of everyone is the most important thing. Nadal is firmly behind his nation's team and he will be cheering for the team despite the difficult circumstances that have hit them. Alcaraz was replaced by Pedro Martinez.
Mucho ánimo a todo el equipo español tras la noticia que hemos recibido hoy. Cuando ocurre algo así la competición pasa a un segundo plano. Lo más importante es la salud y ojalá no haya más casos. Un abrazo a todos! @RFETenis @DavisCup @CopaDavis
🎾 #CopaDavis COMUNICADO OFICIAL: Un miembro de la Selección Española MAPFRE de Tenis🇪🇸 en las #DavisCupFinals de Madrid da positivo por COVID-19. 📲 Más información: rfet.es/es/noticia/com…
