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Nadal knocked out in first round of potential last French Open appearance
Spain's Rafael Nadal waves as he leaves the court after losing against Germany's Alexander Zverev during their first round match of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris, May 27, 2024

RAFAEL NADAL said he did not want a French Open leaving party, but he got one anyway as he bowed out to Alexander Zverev in the first round at Roland Garros.

The 14-time champion, known as the “King of Clay,” was roared on by family, friends and rivals at the scene of his greatest triumphs.

Unseeded after his long injury absence and still way below the peak of his powers, Nadal was unfortunate to run into the in-form world number four in the opening round.

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