Rafael
Nadal meets
Billie Jean King in Málaga. The 22-time Grand Slam champion is training at
Martín Carpena as he prepares for the
Davis Cup, which will mark his final
tournament as a professional player. Meanwhile, legendary American Billie Jean
King is also present at the same venue for the
Billie Jean King Cup.
The
38-year-old Spaniard is inching closer to retirement and is working hard to
face the Netherlands. After a training session with Team Spain, led by David
Ferrer, the 12-time Grand Slam singles champion King approached Nadal to greet
him and take some photos.
During
their interaction, the 80-year-old former tennis star told Nadal, "You’re
looking good," which was met with a smile from the Spaniard. Nadal
affectionately greeted King with two kisses on the cheeks before posing for
photos with the press in Málaga.
Spain is
set to play against the Netherlands on Tuesday, November 19, though questions
remain about Ferrer’s final selections. Carlos Alcaraz is confirmed as the
team’s top singles player and will face Tallon Griekspoor. Nadal could take the
second singles spot but must first prove his fitness and performance during
practice sessions. Ferrer has previously stated that Nadal’s participation will
depend on his physical condition.
Marcel
Granollers and Pedro Martínez are expected to feature in doubles. If Nadal
isn’t fit enough, Roberto Bautista Agut will take on Botic van de Zandschulp in
singles, with Nadal possibly replacing Martínez in doubles to ensure the
Spanish legend receives a proper farewell on court.