Rafael Nadal will return to the courts in an unprecedented partnership with Casper Ruud at the Bastad Open. The 22-times Grand Slam champion is returning to the courts for the first time since his first-round exit at the French Open against eventual runner-up Alexander Zverev.
The Spaniard decided to skip the grass-swing, including Wimbledon, to avoid setbacks from his injuries due to surface changes and even chose not to travel to the All England Club for the third Grand Slam of the year, prioritizing the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where he will play doubles alongside Carlos Alcaraz.
Back in 2008, he secured his first Olympic gold medal by defeating Chilean Fernando Gonzalez in the singles final. Then in 2016, he repeated his success, this time in doubles with compatriot Marc Lopez.
Nadal will seize the opportunity to return to the clay courts at the ATP 250 Bastad alongside 2021 champion (and 2023 runner-up) Casper Ruud. The Norwegian will also participate in the Olympic Games, although he is not expected to compete in doubles, as no other Norwegian player qualified for Paris 2024.
Rafa Nadal also knows what it takes to be a champion in Bastad, where he claimed the title in 2005. The tournament will take place from July 15th to 21st and will feature players such as Jannik Sinner, Andrey Rublev, Kei Nishikori, Cameron Norrie, and Roberto Bautista Agut, among others.
“We’re happy to announce that Rafael Nadal and Casper Ruud will join forces and compete in this year’s doubles tournament in Båstad.”
🇪🇸🤝🇳🇴 We’re happy to announce that Rafael Nadal and Casper Ruud will join forces and compete in this year’s doubles tournament in Båstad. Will they have a shot at the double’s title and do you have a suitable name on this power combo? #nordeaopen #båstad #tennis #atp
