Uncle Toni is once again proving the best source of Rafael Nadal news as the Spaniard confirmed his nephew is nearing a return.
It's probably music to the ears of many Nadal fans who have watched these past few weeks unfold with a lot of trepidation. Hip injuries are very uncomfortable as Nadal was able to see with his return taking a lot longer than the initial prognosis said. It's not yet clear when he will truly return but his uncle confirmed that a competitive return is near, when speaking to RTVE.
Rafael is recovering, I think he is not long before he can compete again, but in this tournament (the Madrid Open) he could not be here.
Nadal's preparation for the clay season has not been ideal as he was mostly forced to hit the ball in order to preserve his arm but movement will take a while. On a surface where it's so crucial Toni Nadal explained that he will be in a tough spot at Roland Garros due to not being able to play since January.
Obviously he is not going to arrive at Roland Garros with a good preparation, we do not have to fool ourselves. Since January 10 he hasn’t played matches and he hasn’t competed for a long time.’ Before Australia he didn’t play many matches either, but Nadal picks up speed right away and in a Grand Slam it depends a lot on the draw. If you are lucky enough to have an affordable draw in the first rounds, then anything can be.
He's not going to be the favourite heading into the event with very little prepration but if he gets a few matches in and manages to advance to the second week of the event, Nadal will certainly be a favourite according to Toni.
I have said many times that they have interviewed me. Nadal in the second week (of a Grand Slam) is a favourite.
0 Comments