'One of the worst opponents,' Coach Carlos Moya not happy about Rafael Nadal playing Alexander Zverev in first round at 2024 Roland Garros as he fears a first-round exit

He highlighted that Zverev is coming on the back of a fantastic run in Rome where he won the title. Moya also said that had Nadal been given a chance to play the German tennis ace deeper into the tournament, it would have been a fair game but currently, it looks a tough task to face Zverev.

Of course, it’s one of the worst opponents he could get [Zverev]. He’s coming in in great shape, no injuries and confident. And he just won in Rome. It was always something that could happen. Considering the fact that Rafa is unseeded, the draws have been kind until now, fair. This time it was the worst that could happen. We were hoping for a draw that would allow him to find his rhythm and confidence gradually. Carlos Moya said about Rafael Nadal’s draw at 2024 Roland Garros.

Carlos Moya backs Rafael Nadal to come good against Alexander Zverev

As much as Rafael Nadal and his team hate the draw, they are confident about the 22-time Grand Slam champion putting his best foot forward. Carlos Moya has said that although the draw is tough, Nadal has a positive attitude and is raring to go.

Moya said that it will be a well-fought match if the Spaniard manages to play at the same level as he had been doing in the practice sessions. Nadal and the team are thinking positively at the moment.

He is raring to go, and has a very positive attitude. For our part, we know where we are and who we’re with. You hold onto that. It’s going to be a very tough, well-fought match. If Rafa can play at the level he has been in practice… why not think positive? Carlos Moya said. (H/T: ATP Tour)

Notably, Nadal is said to be playing well in practice sessions as he recently won a set against Sebastian Korda. The 37-year-old has also practiced against Stefanos Tsitsipas and Holger Rune which might come in handy during his first-round match against Alexander Zverev.