Rafael Nadal acknowledged his fitness is far from the tour’s top level after falling 6-3, 6-3 to fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals of the “Six Kings Slam” exhibition in Saudi Arabia. The 38-year-old Nadal, set to retire after the Davis Cup Finals next month, admitted he is not competing at his peak, describing Alcaraz as an “animal” in terms of form and fitness.
“I know I’m going to play against players that are in much better shape than me,” Nadal said, emphasizing he is simply enjoying the experience rather than playing under pressure.
Alcaraz, who won the French Open and Wimbledon this year, found the match emotionally challenging, saying it was “a little bit sad” to compete against his idol. However, he maintained his competitive edge, remarking, “Once you step on the court, it’s no friends, no idols.”
Nadal, whose last singles appearance was at the Paris Olympics, will face Novak Djokovic for third place on Saturday. Djokovic lost a three-set thriller to Jannik Sinner, who will now face Alcaraz in the final. Nadal reflected on the upcoming match with Djokovic, calling it “nostalgic” given their storied rivalry.
Looking ahead to the Davis Cup, Nadal expressed uncertainty about his physical form but promised he would be emotionally ready to compete.
