Rafael Nadal will return to the courts in an unprecedented partnership with Casper Ruud at the Bastad Open
ATP
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.”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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