Rafael Nadal has explained why he opted to stay in the Olympic village despite being arguably one of the biggest names at this year’s Games.
The Spaniard believes that competitors can’t get the full experience if they don’t fully immerse themselves, even if that means being uncomfortable.
It comes after Novak Djokovic snubbed the athlete complex to stay in his own accommodation during his quest for a gold medal.
Nadal has understandably been one of the most popular faces in the athlete village. Over the last week, other sportspeople have thrown themselves at the chance to take a selfie with the 22-time Grand Slam champion around the grounds.
His compatriot and doubles partner for the Olympics, Carlos Alcaraz, is also living in the village. While it’s a long way away from the usual comforts of a luxury hotel or house, the 38-year-old claimed that it wouldn’t feel like the Olympics unless he got stuck in.
“I think to live the full experience you need to be in the village, that’s true,” Nadal said after losing to Djokovic in the singles event.
