Rafael Nadal is in danger of leaving the Top 100 on the ATP Tour for the first time since he entered it over 20 years ago.
For two decades, Rafael Nadal has been dominant in almost every event that he entered, accumulating titles, points, prize money, and of course, a lot of fans and admirers. The Spanish sensation has built a legacy defined by dedication, resilience, and an unmatched qualities on clay courts, therefore he's now called the Spanish King of Clay.
However, as the 2023 season unfolds, the former world number one faces the unthinkable: the possibility of dropping out of the Top 100 in the ATP Rankings for the first time since he entered it in April 2003.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion is struggling with injuries in 2023 and played only four matches, losing three. Only recently, he left the Top 10 for the first time since entering it 18 years ago, and now even a more significant drop may await him.
Already in one month, a big challenge awaits him as he has to defend his Roland Garros title and 2000 points with it. The tournament has its own worries as it may be included in a series of angry protests, but for Nadal, the challenge will lie on the tennis court, particularly his favourite Court Philippe Chartier.
If he won't be able to do it and lose in the first two rounds, or even withdraw from the tournament, the Spaniard will drop to his lowest in over 20 years. His points total will shrink below 500 and therefore he would drop somewhere around 120th position in the rankings.
The last time Nadal found himself in a similar position was back in March 2003, when he was ranked 152nd. Back then, the Spaniard began his quick climb up the ranks and entered the Top 100 on April 21st, 2003 – a position he has steadfastly maintained ever since.
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