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via Reuters

via Reuters

Rafael Nadal is up and running at the French Open 2022. The 13-time champion has begun the tournament in a dominant fashion. Further, going into the fourth round of the tournament, the ‘King of Clay’ is yet to drop a set.

Yesterday, he prevailed over Botic Van De Zandschulp of the Netherlands in a comfortable straight-set victory. In a match lasting two hours and 11 minutes, Nadal brought his A-game to the court to defeat his Dutch opponent. After the match, Nadal opened up about attending the Champions League 2022 final.

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Rafael Nadal wishes to be present for the Champions League 2022 final

During the post-match press conference after his third-round victory over Botic Van De Zandschulp, Nadal talked about making his presence felt at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, where Real Madrid will take on Liverpool for the Champions League trophy. Nadal said, “I didn’t see Zidane but I know he was there because I was listening the crowd naming him all the time. If I’ll go to watch the #ChampionsLeagueFinal? Let’s see how I wake up tomorrow and if nothing happens my intention is to be there.”

Nadal is a huge Real Madrid fan and has expressed his love for the club. Earlier this year, he revealed how he was inspired by the club’s come-from-behind victory against Manchester City in the Champions League semifinals.

USA Today via Reuters

He said, “Yesterday, had been an unforgettable night. The spirit that the Real Madrid team have is just incredible and for me today, in some way, has been an inspiration by the way I have been fighting all my tennis career.”

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Nadal set to come up against his uncle, Toni Nadal

Nadal’s fourth-round clash against Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada will be special as the Spaniard will come up against his uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal. Last year, Toni started coaching the Canadian. Further, he has had a major impact on Felix’s career. The Canadian’s first ATP title came at Rotterdam this year under the guidance of Nadal’s uncle.

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Further, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top in this contest. The winner of this match will potentially face Novak Djokovic in the quarterfinals of the French Open 2022.