Rafael Nadal faced a tough defeat against ninth-ranked Hubert Hurkacz in the third round of the Italian Open. Nadal, who is still recovering from a hip injury that required surgery, struggled to keep up with Hurkacz's powerful game on the clay court.
Throughout the match, Nadal appeared to lack the speed and precision that has defined his career, missing crucial shots and failing to capitalize on opportunities. Despite the support from fans chanting his name, Nadal couldn't find a way to turn the tide in his favor.
