Rafael Nadal’s return to the French Open – and possible farewell – ended at the first hurdle as the 14-time champion lost in straight sets to German fourth seed Alexander Zverev.
Nadal has become synonymous with Roland Garros but, in front of a partisan crowd baying for a Spanish victory, the 37-year-old could not replicate the level which has made him almost unbeatable on the Paris clay.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner was beaten 6-3 7-6 (7-5) 6-3 by the in-form Zverev.
Nadal indicated when he missed last year’s French Open that the 2024 season could be his final one on tour because of injury.
However, he cannot now be “100%” certain he will not continue, but does concede it is a “good chance” this will be his final French Open.