French Open 2024: 'Unbelievable, unreal' - Alex Corretja reacts to Rafael Nadal walkout before Alexander Zverev match

ByOli Gent

Updated 27/05/2024 at 15:00 GMT+1

Rafael Nadal received what Alex Corretja could only describe as an "unbelievable, unreal" atmosphere when the Spaniard walked out onto Court Philippe-Chatrier for his opening round of the French Open. The 14-time champion faces Alexander Zverev, the fourth seed, in a tricky opening test as Nadal continues his comeback from another injury lay-off in what could be the final year of his career.

Eurosport expert Alex Corretja could not contain his emotion and excitement as Rafael Nadal made his way onto Court Philippe-Chatrier for what could be the final time in his glittering career.

The 14-time French Open champion plays Alexander Zverev, the No. 4 seed at Roland-Garros, in his first-round match as he continues his comeback from yet another hiatus.

The Spaniard was met with cheers and a standing ovation as he stepped out onto court by the French crowd.

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The moment left Corretja among others emotional as he watched his compatriot go through his classic pre-match preparations.

“I think everybody is living this moment as if it could be the last,” Corretja said.

“Unbelievable, unreal. Very emotional moment here on Philippe-Chatrier. Everyone standing up to welcome Rafa onto court.

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“Rafa looks so focused; he doesn’t want to distract himself. He knows he has to play. We can be very emotional, but he needs to leave his heart aside and play with his mind.

“At some points and some moments he might use his heart, but you cannot play with your heart at the beginning of the match, otherwise you will run out of gas.”

'I've never seen a first round like that' - Corretja on incredible atmosphere for Nadal

Video credit: TNT Sports

Eurosport expert Tim Henman said he hopes Nadal can enjoy "one last great run" at Roland-Garros before retiring with the former world No. 1 boasting a truly remarkable record at the event, having won 112 matches while losing just three since his debut in 2005.

"We know Rafa is not going to be around forever but it would be great if he could just have one great last run," said Henman on Eurosport.

"It is such a tough first-round match but there is a lot for us to look forward to.

"The achievements are led by 14 Roland-Garros titles, but it is the way he goes about his business.

"He is so humble, he treats people so well away from the court.

"He has got great values, he has got a great work ethic and that is why I think we as sports fans have got to enjoy this moment."

Crowd stunned as Zverev breaks Nadal in opening game of huge clash

Video credit: TNT Sports

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You can watch every day of the 2024 French Open live and on-demand on discovery+

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