Rafael Nadal’s close friend, doubles partner, and current coach, Marc Lopez, shared with ATPTour.com the story of how our champ extended an invitation for them to play doubles in Brisbane. Despite being a retired player with no recent competitive matches, Marc found it impossible to decline the offer.
As everyone knows, I was already retired, but it’s true that Rafa told me when I retired: Hey, you played in Barcelona with Feli, in Madrid with Alcaraz, and I would like us to play together one last time.
It had been a bit uncertain. It’s true that, unfortunately, due to Rafa’s injury, we hadn’t been able to play in the 2023 season, and in the end, this possibility came up.
I didn’t expect it; he told me while training in Kuwait that he wanted to play a match before the singles, and he suggested playing together.
I had very little competitive activity, but in the end, we did what we could. The important thing was, speaking as his coach now, that he at least stepped onto the court to compete, even in doubles. It was a warm-up before the singles, which is the truly important part.
Personally, playing for the last time with Rafa, even if it wasn’t a good match, always brings joy. Aside from being on his team now, he is one of my best friends, and he has helped me a lot throughout my career. I will always be grateful for everything he has given me, both in sports and personally.
Marc Lopez
Witnessing the bromance between Rafa and Marc in action once again is truly heartwarming. Every moment they share on the court manages to melt our hearts, showcasing a friendship that goes beyond the game.
Source: ATP Tour (Nadal Saldó Una ‘Deuda Pendiente’ Con Marc López)
I still remember back in 2016 I went to Court 1 cheering for Marc & Feli instead of watching my favorite player from the bottom on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Thanks for the autograph, Marc.❤️
I’m a huge fan of Team Cuteness as we used to call Marc/Rafa doubles! Was good to see them play together one last time. Seeing them win Olympic doubles gold in 2016 was fantastic. They hadn’t planned to play together since at that time Marc’s steady partner was Feli and Rafa had teamed up with Verdasco. But Feli and Fer both decided not to go to the Brazil Olympics and Rafa and Marc jumped at the chance to play together again. Marc’s pro career in doubles was relatively short but he won the year end ATP tournament in doubles with Granollers and the 2016 RG doubles with Feli Lopez. And of course, Olympic gold with Rafa!
Lovely words. Well said.
Well said
Winning gold medal with your best friend is something you probaly don’t dream of. Their bromance is real! 😍
👍👍
Thank you RNF. Moving words by Marc Lopez. He’s truly a loyal friend to Rafa. Bless them both.
Watching the finale of ‘his dark materials. I’ll read Lopez’s sage words right after.
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