Ben Shelton‘s prediction for Wimbledon turns into an unsuccessful story! Everyone on the tennis scene is currently excited to see Rafael Nadal play in probably the last year of his career. While the Spaniard is going through regular setbacks because of his off-track form, the dreams of his admirers are also taking a hit. While the young American uncovered a desire to see him rule the grass court season this time, it seems like he will have to suppress his expectations.

The world recently embraced Carlos Alcaraz as the new clay court major champion. While it was time to shift to the grass courts, the ATP tour came with an interactive session. Their official X handle recently shared a video in which ATP stars can be seen narrating their predictions for the upcoming major event. Ben Shelton, who finds himself drowned in the waters of a deep admiration for Rafael Nadal, submitted his name as a possible Wimbledon champion.

“Rafa playing well and doing well at Wimbledon would be a fairytale story. I think every tournament that he’s playing right now, could have a fairytale ending,” he said, sticking to the fact that these could be the last few moments for the world to witness Rafa’s legacy. While Shelton has submitted his urge to see Rafa take the grass courts, he will have to limit the expectations because of the Spaniard’s recent announcement.

Soon after the French Open curriculum wrapped up, Rafael Nadal stated that he would not participate in Wimbledon this year. Explaining his sheer determination to be a part of the Paris Olympics, Rafa used it as a justification for his withdrawal. “It’s for this reason that I will miss playing at The Championships this year at Wimbledon,” he announced on social media.

With his withdrawal announcement, not only Ben Shelton but the whole tennis community had to support the King of Clay with his decision. Although he has pulled out of Wimbledon, the Spaniard recently announced his participation in a lesser interacted event.

Rafael Nadal announces Bastad plans

Rafael Nadal is completely focused on his dream to secure an Olympic medal before he bids goodbye to fans. Sticking to the clay courts even after his early exit at Roland Garros, the legend announced to be a part of a 250 event.

“In order to prepare for the Olympic Games, I will play the tournament in Bastad, Sweden. A tournament that I played earlier in my career and where I had a great time both on and off the court. Looking forward to seeing you all there,” Rafa wrote on X to inform fans of his updated schedule.

It was back in 2005 that he took the courts of Sweden for the last time. While he is all set to travel the same road once again, it is obvious that the locals would eagerly anticipate the King of Clay’s presence.