Rafael Nadal is once again chasing glory at the French Open.
In a memorable moment five years ago, one of tennis’s greatest players made a shot that left even a famous golfer in awe.
During the 2019 US Open, Nadal was in a fierce battle against Marin Cilic. Leading two sets to one and striving to close out the match in the fifth set, he found himself sprinting across the court after a deft move by his opponent.
What happened next was unforgettable.
With 1,075 career victories, Nadal demonstrated his relentless spirit. As the ball neared its second bounce, which would have handed the point to Cilic, an aging Nadal kept running and managed to stretch his racket to make contact.
Barely reaching the falling ball, Nadal’s internal drive sent it back across the court, curving it around the net.
The crowd erupted in applause, stunned by the spectacle.
Among his supporters was golf legend Tiger Woods, who stood up and celebrated with a proud fist pump.
“Oh my!” exclaimed one announcer.
“Come on!” added another.
Fans were equally impressed by Nadal’s precision and energy.
“It’s not just the shot,” one fan noted. “It’s the fact that after playing for nearly three hours, he still made that shot. What a beast.”
“Can’t decide which was better, the shot or the celebration,” wrote another fan.
Nadal cherished having Woods in the audience.
“Playing in front of Tiger is very special,” Nadal said. “I’ve always said I don’t have idols, but if I did, Tiger would be one. It means a lot to me to have his support. He’s an amazing inspiration, with everything he’s accomplished and his relentless fighting spirit. Having him here and being in touch with him often makes me super happy. I hope one day we can play golf and tennis together.”
After his incredible shot, Nadal went on to defeat Cilic in four sets, advancing to the quarterfinals, and eventually won the tournament by overcoming Daniil Medvedev in the final.
Now 37, Nadal is nearing the end of his career as the 2024 French Open begins. He faced a tough first-round match against No. 4 seed Alexander Zverev on Monday.
Although the crowd hoped for a Nadal victory, he was defeated in three sets.
“There’s a big chance this could be my last Roland Garros,” Nadal admitted. “But I can’t say for sure. I can’t predict the future.”
Nadal, who once had an annual rivalry with Roger Federer, holds 14 French Open titles.
