Nadal surprised with Olympic role just before ceremony

Rafael Nadal revealed he learned about his role in the Paris 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony just minutes before it began. He was informed shortly before receiving the torch from Zinedine Zidane. Nadal described the experience as a surprise, stating he was kept in the dark to maintain secrecy. He only received details about his task moments before stepping on stage. During the ceremony, Nadal felt emotional but reminded himself to enjoy the moment. He was the first torchbearer in the final leg of the Olympic Torch relay.