Rafael Nadal’s Olympic preparation gains momentum, Paris Olympics 2024, Swedish Open, Casper Ruud, comments, reactions, latest news

Rafael Nadal’s Olympic preparation is gaining momentum after another close win in the doubles at the Swedish Open.

Nadal teamed up with world number nine Norwegian Casper Ruud, as he looks to gain valuable match fitness in the lead up to his third Olympics campaign.

The pair saved a match point in the match tie break to progress to the semi-finals of the tournament, 6-4, 3-6, 12-10 against Theo Arribage and Roman Safiullin.

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The pair, who have been coined ‘Ruudal’ won the match after a deadly volley from the Spaniard at the net.

“I think we had some fun. It was an emotional match at the end, a good level of tennis against two good players,” said Nadal, who is set to face Cameron Norrie in the singles in the round of 16 on Thursday night.

“We enjoy it, the crowd was amazing. Full crowd in a doubles match, that’s fantastic. Just enjoying every single day here.”

It’s another step towards Paris for Nadal, who is set to play alongside young superstar and reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz for Spain at the Games.

It was the first time the 22-time Grand Slam champion returned to competition since his first-round exit at the French Open.

Ruud and Nadal were in jovial spirits post-match as they look to a potential semi-final clash with third seeds Orland Luz and Rafael Matos.

“When you cannot win singles, you have to try to win doubles, it was not the best beginning of the day but very nice way to finish the day, winning again alongside Rafa was special,” Ruud said.

“We got a bit lucky but we’re looking forward to the next match.”

Nadal clearly approved of ‘Ruudal’ when asked on-court post-game.

“I mean I have ‘Fedal’ and now ‘Ruudal’… so I guess both!”

Paris 2024 will be Nadal’s third Olympics campaign, having won the gold medal at Beijing in 2008 and acting as Spain’s flagbearer in Rio in 2016.

Nadal did not compete at the Australian Open this year due to a muscle injury, while he also skipped the grass court season, including Wimbledon, as he dealt with hip and abdominal issues.