French Open 2024: Rafael Nadal gets direct entry through protected ranking

The entry list for the 2024 edition of the French Open was revealed on April 16, Tuesday, with Rafael Nadal getting into the draw through a protected ranking. The cut-off rankings for the men’s singles draw was 99 but Nadal, along with Marin Cilic, Denis Shapovalov, Kei Nishikori and Kwon Soonwoo used the protected ranking method to make it.

The 14-time champion hasn’t had the best of times in 2024, taking part only in the Brisbane International and making it to the quarterfinals. Injury would force him to miss the Australian Open and the Indian Wells this year as well. He will be making his return to the court at the Barcelona Open on April 16.

“I came here a bit on a last-minute decision, not knowing if I could play,” Nadal revealed, highlighting the uncertainty that has shrouded his comeback. Despite the challenges, his love for the game and the Barcelona Open, in particular, remains undiminished. “For me, it’s a gift to be able to be here in Barcelona,” he stated, acknowledging the special place the tournament holds in his heart.

Nadal has been given the No.9 seed via the protected ranking. Novak Djokovic has been given the No.1 seed for the French Open with Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz taking the No.2 and No.3 spots.

Kerber and Osaka also use protected ranking

On the women’s side of things, Angelique Kerber and Naomi Osaka have made it to the main draw via the protected ranking and will mark their return to Roland Garros. Both women made their return to tennis at the Australian Open after giving birth in 2023.

Iga Swiatek has been given the No.1 seed with Aryna Sabalenka being the No.2 spot. Coco Gauff is at the No.3 spot, while last year’s finalist Karolina Muchova won’t be taking part in this year’s edition due to injury.

The French Open will will take place from 20th May to 9th June 2024.