Tennis icon Rafael Nadal struggled to speak after potentially saying goodbye to the French Open with a first-round exit.
The Spaniard was given a testing draw and came up against Alexander Zverev on Monday afternoon. However, he struggled to find a way beyond his opponent - who secured a 6-3 7-6 (7-5) 6-3 success - despite a battling display.
Zverev will now play David Goffin or Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard for a spot in the third round. Meanwhile, Nadal was left to bid an emotional farewell to Roland-Garros but refused to confirm whether it was his last appearance at the French Open.
Speaking after his defeat, the 37-year-old said: "It is difficult for me to talk, I don't know if it's the last time I'll be here in front of all of you. Honestly, I am not sure. If it is, then you have been amazing. The feelings I have today are difficult to describe in words. It is the place I love the most.
"I have to congratulate Sasha for this great match. I really wish you all the best in this tournament. 2022 was a tough moment for you so you deserve it.
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"I have been going through a very tough two years in terms of injuries. I went all through these processes with the dream to be back here. The first round wasn't ideal. I was competitive and I had chances but it was difficult against a player as good as Sasha.
"It's hard to say about the future. I am travelling with my family and I am having fun. The body is feeling better than it did two months ago. Maybe in two months I say it's enough. That is something I don't feel yet. I hope to be back here for the Olympics, that motivates me. I really hope to be well prepared.
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"The amount of feelings I had on this court throughout my career, I didn't think I would be here almost 38 with all of the success. It has been a very beautiful process. All the people who are in Roland Garros helping me since I came here and the support of my people.
"I can't thank them all enough. The feelings you made me feel here are unforgettable, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart. I hope to see you again, but I don't know."
Despite his win, Zverev also made sure to pay credit to his legendary opponent, who looks set to bow out this year after amassing an eye-watering 14 victories at Roland Garros. He said: "I don't know what to say. Thank you Rafa from all of the tennis world.
“It is such a great honour. I've watched Rafa play all my childhood and I was lucky enough to play him two times on this beautiful court. Today is not my moment, it is Rafa's moment. I'm not going to speak much."
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