‘It’s My Last Year’- Former King of Clay Bjorn Borg Turns Ecstatic Over Rafael Nadal’s Decision to Re-Join Laver Cup

The former “King of Clay” will now join hands with Rafael Nadal in his last year of captaincy. Bjorn Borg, the captain of Team Europe, is putting together his squad with strategic acumen for his last season of the Laver Cup. And in a surprising move, Nadal has accepted Borg’s “captain pick” invitation to represent Team Europe in its seventh edition of the game. 

The last time Rafa appeared in the tournament was for the iconic doubles match-up with Roger Federer two years ago, for the Swiss legend’s last game on the Tour. As Rafael Nadal is now ready to make his 4th Laver Cup appearance this year, Borg’s wish from last year to be captain for Nadal one last time comes to mind.

“Rafa is an absolute legend in our sport. A true champion in every sense of the word. It’s my last year as Captain. Having him on Team Europe this year was a goal of mine. And I’m thrilled he has accepted my invitation and will be with us in Berlin,” Borg said for the 2024 edition of the tournament.

After Prague in 2017, Geneva in 2019, and London in 2022, the hope is that Berlin in 2024 will be a successful fourth run for Rafa. Borg previously admitted that Nadal is a fantastic player irrespective of his struggles with injury. Adding to that, “He loves playing Laver Cup and is one of the greatest competitors the sport has ever seen.” 

With Rafael Nadal joining a team of top players like Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev, and Carlos Alcaraz, Borg wants to bring back the Cup. Having served as team captains since the Laver Cup’s debut in 2017 in Prague, Borg and John McEnroe’s battle will be their last one this year. And after Nadal’s inclusion, the stakes have gone higher. Nadal also acknowledged his excitement for the game during his recent statement after the announcement.

Rafael Nadal reminisces about his “special memories” in the Laver Cup game

The 22-time Grand Slam champion has stated that this will probably be his last season. Previously, he has missed 11 months of 2023 due to his consistent hip issues. But before his retirement, he wants to make a mark in the Laver Cup. Especially in a place where he previously played his last match with long-time rival Roger Federer before his retirement.

“I have some really special memories from my Laver Cup experiences, including all the emotions from London two years ago playing alongside Roger for the last time. At this stage in my career, I really want to go out there and make the most of every opportunity I am given,” Nadal said.

Rafael Nadal’s current ranking has stumbled to 512. This is because he has not won a title since his last French Open tournament two years ago. But fans are hopeful his participation in the Laver Cup team might be the comeback that everyone is waiting for.