Why That Matters:

– Nadal is one of the top ranked professional tennis players in the world (currently #5 per the ATP)

– He won the French Open this year and was seen as a favorite entering this year’s Wimbledon

– This is the first time Nadal has lost in the first round in a singles at a Grand Slam event

– This loss is seen as one of the biggest upsets in Wimbledon history

Other Tidbits:

– Nadal was defeated by Belgian tennis pro Steve Darcis (7-6 (4), 7-6 (8), 6-4) – ranked 135th in the world, making it extra surprising that he was able to come out ahead of Nadal

– Darcis also spent part of his season competing in the challenger circuit (the minor leagues of pro tennis)

– As opposed to the French Open tournament which is played on red clay, Wimbledon is played on grass

– A year ago, Nadal lost in the 2nd round to 100th-ranked Lukas Rosol

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