Rafael Nadal has never been comfortable in tough indoor tournaments, and that story repeated itself at this edition of the Paris Masters. The Iberian left the competition in the second round (from the first match), he was defeated by Tommy Paul (31st ATP).

Rafael NadalPhoto: Ella Ling / Shutterstock Editorial / Profimedia

Rafael Nadal and the clear explanation of defeat: when you play badly, you lose

The second in the world ranking, Nadal returned to the court after an important period of inactivity.

The Iberian has barely played at all since his exit from the 2022 US Open (he only tested a doubles match after knocking out Roger Federer from the Laver Cup), and he has become a father in the meantime, and that thought hasn’t really focused on tennis.

The lack of rhythm in the official matches was on full display and Rafa ended up losing the match to Tommy Paul 6-3, 6-7(4), 1-6. The game lasted two hours and 31 minutes.

Known for his mostly fair play statements, Nadal made it clear at the end of the match why he lost.

“It’s always the same – if you play well, you win, if you don’t, you lose. Today there were moments when we performed well, but not in the key moments of the game. That’s where the difference was” – Rafael Nadal.

The next competition to see Rafael Nadal at is the Tournament of Champions in Turin.

The competition will be held from November 13 to 20 at Pala Alpitur.

Know:

  • During his career, Nadal has never won the Paris Masters or the Champions Tour.

The result of the match Rafael Nadal – Tommy Paul

Video source: Eurosport