Spain’s men’s doubles campaign at the Paris Olympics has been shredded to pieces and with it, their hopes of a gold. The Spaniard duo of Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz were recently dumped out of the quadrennial event. Despite much hype around their maiden team-up, the pair could not survive the challenge of a doubles specialist team. This, in turn, elicited a reaction from a sensational doubles player who took a sly dig at followers of the sport.

In the quarterfinals, ‘Nadalcaraz’ was sent packing by American talents Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4. This defeat concluded their doubles Olympic run when they were just one victory shy from the medal rounds. While their exit from the clay court of Roland Garros sent shock waves in the tennis world owing to fans’ massive support for their triumph, one individual, in particular, took this opportunity to voice his contrasting thoughts.

Doubles former World No. 1 Mate Pavic took to his official Instagram handle to congratulate the crowd-favorite American duo. Later, the Croatian sarcastically highlighted that their victory proved that doubles professionals do not belong to the bottom of the tennis food chain. “Well done guys! I guess the doubles players are not as bad as the whole tennis world seems to think that way.“

It is worth noting that Nadal and Alcaraz’s doubles collaboration prompted the community to mock other doubles players. They highlighted how the seasoned singles professionals, with no experience in doubles skillset, seemingly gained an edge over those regularly performing in the doubles circuit. The Spaniard duo had thwarted their previous round opponents’ challenge in straight sets.

However, they could not continue their triumph against the American duo. This defeat means that Nadal’s final bid to secure a gold medal is unfortunately over. Moreover, Rafa is uncertain if he will return to the French Open next year, which means his run where he was king has come to an end.

Rafael Nadal uncertain on continuing love affair in Paris

For a player who has battled injury concerns at the Games and made a comeback despite facing all odds this season, it is disheartening for Rafael Nadal to exit the Olympics without decorating his nation with a medal. Subsequently, the 22-time Grand Slam champion voiced his dubiety on whether he would return to the Court Phillipe Chatrier. Notably, the Spaniard has won 14 titles on his favored hunting ground in Paris.

In a post-match presser, the former World No. 1 mentioned that he will extensively ponder his options and if he has the “desire” to compete further. He also thanked his fans for supporting him throughout his Olympic journey. “I need to go home and analyze the situation cold, to see the desire and the strength I have left. If it was my last on this Philippe Chatrier court? Maybe, I don’t know. If that’s the case, it will be unforgettable emotions. The public gave me love. The fans supported me in every second of my matches.“

Regardless of the Spaniard’s decision, the tennis world will be seemingly content if he decides to step away from the sport. His retirement news will be saddening, undoubtedly, but Rafa’s laudable legacy will be forever preserved by fans as a reminder of what the ‘King of Clay’ has accomplished!