“Waiting List of 15,000 People”: Citi Open Chairman Reveals How Washington is Buzzing For Rafael Nadal

Ever since its extravagant opening ceremony, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics has been making front-page headlines. With one too many enthralling encounters and an impeccable display of sports, the mega-event has garnered world attention. However, ecstatic fans had to settle for disappointment earlier this year, as former Olympic Gold medalist, Rafael Nadal announced his withdrawal from the tournament. Regardless, even away from Tokyo, the Spaniard is creating a buzz all around the circuit.

Following his loss at the 2021 French Open, Rafael Nadal announced a short sabbatical away from the sport. As a result, he missed out on the 2021 Wimbledon Championship and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well. Undoubtedly, fans were disappointed to not see the maestro at the Summer Games.

However, bringing delight to distressed fans, Nadal soon announced his surprise appearance in Washington, playing for the first time at the Citi Open. Ever since the news broke out, there has been an unprecedented buzz all around the court. Speaking of the same, Chairman of the Citi Open, Mark Ein, talked about Rafael’s impact on the tournament already.

“The whole town is buzzing”- Mark Ein on Rafael Nadal coming to Washington

The tournament that was canceled last year because of the hike in cases of Covid-19 will return to court in style. Despite its comeback, Nadal continues to be the highlight for this year. The stadium is expected to be in full capacity as tickets to watch the icon are sold out. Revealing the excitement of fans, Mark said, “It’s indescribable… The whole town is buzzing, our community is buzzing. Tickets have been sold out the minute they went on sale. The extra that we put on sale went on sale. We have a waiting list of 15,000 people that want to come.” 

Not just fans, but Nadal too looks forward to his first appearance in Washington. He said, “I am very excited to come to Washington for the first time. I have never been there and it is one more place I wanted to come and play. Looking forward to seeing again my US fans that I have not seen since I won the 2019 US Open in NYC! Vamos!”

Tough draw at the Citi Open

Rafael Nadal’s fandom will surely be an added boost for the tournament and for the player himself. However, to attain any kind of success in the tournament, he will need much more than that. Playing for his 89th ATP title, the World No. 3 will face some of the young guns in the sport, one of whom he has fallen victim to in the past.

From the likes of Denis Shapovalov, and Felix Auger-Aliassime to Miami Open champion Hubert Hurkacz and world No. 29 Karen Khachanov, the list of talents is endless. Hence, Nadal’s road to the title might be tough. Regardless. fans are sure to back the ‘G.O.A.T’ to use his experience and outsmart his younger counterparts.