MALLORCA – Due to a series of physical problems, tennis star, Rafael Nadal, has experienced a rather complicated year, reported Tennis World USA on Wednesday.
For starters, a back injury did not allow him to present his best form at the Australian Open and when the Spanish phenomenon returned to the pitch during the clay court season, he failed to score his 14th title at Roland Garros.
The former world number one began to experience a nagging pain in his foot during his semi-final against Novak Djokovic.
In the hope of being fully recovered for the North American swing, the 35-year-old from Manacor decided to give up both Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics.
Yet, after a few matches in Washington, Rafael has chosen to end his season prematurely.
Although it is not known exactly when the 20-time Grand Slam champion will return to the circuit in 2022, the Iberian should still be able to keep his place in the top ten regardless of what happens in the next month and a half.
“In the past, talent and tactics were much more relevant than they are today.”
“Today’s tennis is based on different concepts. On land, it is still possible to manoeuvre, on grass and concrete it has become almost impossible. Tennis is faster and faster, and I’m not convinced it’s the right way.”
Rafael added that the blow to it all is the service, which has greatly benefitted from technological innovations.
“If a solution is not found soon, there is a risk that tennis will become hostage to that single shot. I think the situation will get worse in the next ten years.”
“Many people thought that my style of play was too expensive, but they were wrong since I reached 35,” said the Spaniard when speaking about the unexpected longevity of his career.
Rafeal should be back on the court first thing next season. – Agencies, October 22, 2021
