'Nadalcaraz' have been suffering but...: Nadal's BIG claim on playing with Carlos Alcaraz in Paris Olympics

Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have lit up the atmosphere at theParis Olympics 2024 edition by teaming up in a doubles event for Spain. On Tuesday (July 30), the duo moved past Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof in their second-round clash to progress to the quarterfinals. While on court, the pair has been an instant hit, but it hasn't been a smooth sail for them injury woes. Nadal returned to actionin the Games, after a long injury layoff whereas young sensation Alcaraz -- who won the French Open and Wimbledon this year -- also shrugged off a groin injury scare during the ongoing competition.

In addition, the two aren't used to playing doubles. However, Nadal and Alcaraz -- widely known as 'Nadalcaraz' -- have still shown remarkable progress together but have plenty to achieve in the ongoing Games in Paris. After their second consecutive win, Nadal said they have been 'suffering but also having fun'.

Nadal, who is chasing a third Olympic gold, said, "We had fun because the score was positive in the (match) tie-break. We have been suffering but we are enjoying playing together, we are creating good synergies, good energy, so yeah, we are having fun in general terms. We have the positive relationship outside of the court that helps inside (the court)."

The Spaniard further added, "We are not used to playing doubles so the only way to make that work well is to play with happiness, with energy, with high energy. That's what we are trying to do."

Nadalcaraz beat the Dutch pair, on Tuesday, by virtue of a 6-4, 6-7 (2), 10-4 scoreline at the Roland Garros to progress ahead. Talking about the men's singles competition, Nadal is already out of the reckoning following a second-round loss to longtime rival Novak Djokovic whereas Alcaraz is inthe third round.