As the world anticipates the iconic Roland Garros, questions surround 14-time champion Rafael Nadal's participation due to ongoing injury woes.
Tournament director Amelie Mauresmo remains hopeful for the Spanish star's recovery, as Nadal's absence would undoubtedly leave a void in the competition. The King of Clay has been a dominant force at the French Open since 2005, and his potential withdrawal could mark the end of an era.
For nearly two decades, Rafael Nadal has reigned supreme on the red clay of Roland Garros, capturing the hearts of fans and etching his name in the annals of tennis history. However, the tennis titan has struggled with a hip injury since January's Australian Open, which forced him to withdraw from the Madrid Open.
As the French Open draws near, concerns about Nadal's fitness continue to grow. Amelie Mauresmo, the tournament director of Roland Garros, recently expressed her thoughts on the matter in an interview with BBC Sport.
She acknowledged that the possibility of Nadal's non-participation is real, given his current condition. Nevertheless, Mauresmo remains optimistic, citing the importance of the French Open to Nadal and the time left for him to recuperate before the main draw.
"It's obviously a possibility for him not to be able to be fit to come here to Roland Garros. But the only thing I know for sure is that if there is one tournament he doesn't want to miss, it is this one. We are still five weeks away from the main draw. I am still hopeful, and I'll keep my fingers crossed."
Mauresmo's optimism is not unfounded, as the relentless spirit and determination that define Nadal's career are qualities that could propel him towards recovery. The thought of Roland Garros without Nadal is a somber one, as the Spaniard's grit and passion have come to symbolize the essence of the tournament.
"It will be hard [to imagine Roland Garros without him]. It would be hard if he doesn't come, to be honest. He's so much part of the history of the tournament for the last almost 20 years - it would be sad. But I am someone that is positive so I'm going to hope that things are going to get better for him."
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