Nadal holds up physically to reach semi-finals
The Straits Times|July 20, 2024
Rafael Nadal was not going to allow anything to get in his way as he continued to ramp up his preparations for the Paris Olympics next week.
Nadal holds up physically to reach semi-finals

Playing on his favourite clay surface at the Swedish Open, the Spanish great bounced back from a set down to defeat Argentina's Mariano Navone 6-7 (2-7), 7-5, 7-5 in the quarter-finals on July 19.

A day earlier, the 22-time Grand Slam champion had also fought back from trailing 4-1 in the second set to beat British fifth seed Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4.

It was all the more remarkable considering the 38-year-old veteran last played singles tennis at the French Open in May as he struggled with fitness issues.

His victories so far in Bastad would be a huge boost as he looks ahead to both the singles and the doubles partnering reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz - at the Games.

"For moments he was in control.

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