Rafael Nadal is set to compete in his first singles final in two years at the Nordea Open on Sunday after defeating Croatia’s Duje Ajduković in the semifinals.
The 38-year-old Nadal secured a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Ajduković in the semifinals, advancing to the championship match to face Portugal’s Nuno Borges. This final presents an opportunity for Nadal to claim his first singles title since his 2022 French Open win and potentially secure his 93rd career singles title.
“It’s always a great feeling to reach a final. Winning four consecutive matches is something I haven’t accomplished in two years,” Nadal expressed after his victory.
“Throughout this recovery process, I have regained many things I had lost. It hasn’t been easy, but I have been fighting hard. The matches I played yesterday and today have helped me improve on many aspects on the court. I’m pleased with my progress,” he added.
In preparation for the upcoming Paris Olympics, Nadal opted to skip Wimbledon this year to focus on training on clay courts. He will participate in the singles event at Roland Garros and will team up with Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz for doubles representing Spain.
Later today, Nadal will partner with Casper Rudd in the doubles semifinal, a rematch of their encounter in the French Open final two years ago.