Rafael Nadal played only four ATP matches in 2023 and his total won't increase anytime soon as he's focusing on training.
The 36-year-old missed the Sunshine Double due to an injury and when he returned to the tennis courts, he immediately started practicing on clay. Then, Nadal signed up for the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters and also revealed that he will compete in Barcelona and it was clear what his plans are.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion is targeting preparation for the 2023 Roland Garros, where he can win his 15th title on the Parisian clay and add to his incredible collection of trophies from the French capital.
The Spaniard only recently stepped on the tennis courts again, but according to the Barcelona Open Tournament Director, David Ferrer, who spoke to Cope, the 22-time Grand Slam champion is already doing blocks of five days.
"Rafa is already doing blocks of five days and little by little. I have faith and confidence that he can get to the tour on the ground well and, above all, that he can be in Barcelona. Knowing him, he will be very happy to return."
Without a doubt, the Spaniard will have only one thing on his mind, heading into the European clay-court swing, and that will be the 23rd Grand Slam trophy, which he could capture at the 2023 Roland Garros. David Ferrer knows this and he knows also his former Davis Cup colleague is aware of the importance of this event.
"It's an important year for him, a year where starting in Monte Carlo is going to be good because I think his primary objective is to win Roland Garros and more Grand Slams than any tennis player. Rafa understands and knows that for that he also needs match rhythm and the sooner he has it, the better."
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