As Rafael Nadal expressed his satisfaction at being able to return to Roland Garros once again, a flurry of laughter circled the room. This coming fortnight could be a truly significant moment, the 14-time champion’s final appearance in Paris and one that could well end with his first-round meeting against Alexander Zverev on Monday. In reality, though, not even Nadal has a clue if this is the end.
“Maybe the last one, maybe not,” he said, smiling. “I hope to be clear. I don’t want to create a big confusion, but I’m enjoying what I am doing. Sorry, but I am feeling competitive in the practices.”
