Alcaraz Still Alive in Singles, But Spanish Duo Outmatched by Doubles Specialists Krajicek and Ram

Carlos Alcaraz remains in the singles competition, but the Spanish duo was outclassed by doubles specialists Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram, falling just one match short of the medal rounds on Wednesday. Rafael Nadal’s hopes for a third and likely final Olympic medal came to an end when he and his distinguished countryman, Carlos Alcaraz, were defeated in the men’s doubles event at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris. The quarterfinal match saw the No. 4 seeds Krajicek and Ram triumph over the Spanish pair, winning 6-2, 6-4.

The Spanish team had surged into the quarterfinals after a grueling second-round victory on Tuesday, but their limited experience in doubles play was evident against the seasoned Krajicek and Ram. The match, lasting about 97 minutes under the roof of Court Philippe-Chatrier, highlighted the American duo’s dominance.

Nadal, a two-time Olympic champion with golds in singles (2008) and doubles (2016 with Marc Lopez), aimed for a final Olympic appearance in Paris, a city where he has celebrated 14 Roland Garros titles. Following a loss in the men’s singles to former world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, Nadal concentrated on doubles with Alcaraz, who has had a swift ascent in the men’s singles but limited doubles experience.

Alcaraz, 21, entered the quarterfinals of men’s singles earlier in the day by defeating Roman Safiullin. Despite his recent major victories at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, Alcaraz had only participated in seven doubles tournaments prior to the Olympics. Nadal’s extensive experience helped bridge the gap in their first two matches, with the duo upsetting No. 6 seeds Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni of Argentina and narrowly winning a 10-point tiebreaker against the Dutch team of Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof.

Krajicek and Ram, however, posed a unique challenge. Both have secured major doubles titles in recent years—Krajicek at the 2022 Roland Garros with Ivan Dodig, and Ram with three consecutive US Open titles alongside Joe Salisbury. The American pair showcased their efficiency by winning their first two matches without losing a set.

Continuing their momentum, the No. 4 seeds dominated the first set with a decisive performance. Trailing in the second set, Nadal and Alcaraz endured a frustrating exchange with umpire Miriam Bley but made a determined effort to stay in the match, forcing Krajicek and Ram to serve for the win.

Nadal managed to force a missed volley from Krajicek, energizing the Spanish fans and earning three break point opportunities. However, Krajicek and Ram saved all three break points, maintaining a perfect record on break point saves and reaching match point with a skillful volley from Ram.

Although the Spaniards saved the first match point, Krajicek and Ram remained steadfast. A strong serve from Krajicek set up a second match point, and an ace secured their victory in just over 90 minutes.

The American duo will face Czechs Tomas Machac and Adam Pavlasek in the semifinals, who had earlier upset No. 2 seeds Kevin Krawietz and Tim Pütz in a match tiebreaker.