Rafael Nadal shared some kind words for the fans at the Swedish Open after contesting his first singles match at the tournament in 19 years.
The 38-year-old had his first match in Bastad since 2005 when he competed against Leo Borg, the son of 11-time Grand Slam champion Bjorn Borg.
The wildcard did not not back down and tried to go for his shots, but the 22-time Grand Slam champion used all his experience to repel his advances.
Despite showing signs of some early rust, the Spaniard clinched a 6-3, 6-4 and advanced to the next round and continue his preparations for the final Olympic Games of his glittering career.
What did Rafael Nadal say to the fans at the Swedish Open?
Nadal found success in the wet and heavy conditions by using his high topspin forehand to force Borg into his backhand corner.
This forced the hometown player to hit above his shoulder and the tactic worked as Nadal did not face a break point and completed a comfortable win after one hour and 25 minutes.
Post-match he took time to thank the crowd for their support after his long absence from the tournament. “Playing in front of a full crowd like this means a lot to me. It gives me energy to keep practicing every day,” he said.
“Even in the tougher moments, I have been able to keep going with the help of the team. The fans have a huge impact on that. They give me amazing energy.
“Today, I have to say thank you very much to the Spanish followers here, but especially the Swedish, since I haven’t been able to play here for such a long time.”
Rafael Nadal praised Leo Borg after their Swedish Open match
During the Madrid Masters in 2019, Nadal was asked which former player he would like to face, and replied by saying Borg, a six-time French Open winner.
Five years later he played one of his sons in their home country of Sweden and the pair contested a competitive match in which Nadal emerged victorious.
The former World number one took some time to comment on his opponent’s game and expects big things from him moving forward.
“For me, it has been a huge honour to play against the son of one of the biggest legends in the history of our sport,” Nadal said of Borg.
“I think he played quite well, he has a great future ahead of him. I wish him all the very best.” Nadal will play Britain’s Cam Norrie in round two.
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