Rafael Nadal greets Billie Jean King during training ahead of his Davis Cup farewell

ATP
Sunday, 17 November 2024 at 07:30
billie jean king

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.

Just In

Popular News