Nadal: "We've come full circle

At a press conference following his defeat by Botic Van de Zandschulp (6-4, 6-4), Rafael Nadal was obviously very emotional. Although he didn't yet know that Spain would be eliminated, he himself admitted that it would be better not to play him in the singles if he qualified.

Somewhat amused despite his sadness, the Majorcan couldn't help pointing out his statistical record in the competition (29 wins, 2 losses): "Sending me out on court as No.2 didn't work. So maybe the right decision will be to change. If I were the captain, that's probably what I'd do. I wouldn't play myself in the next game if we qualify, that's how I feel.

But in the end, it's not my decision. Incidentally, in a way, it's a good thing this is my last match. I lost my first Davis Cup single, and my last. I've come full circle.