David Ferrer assesses playing chances of Rafael Nadal in Davis Cup
Rafael Nadal has not played any professional tennis match since losing in the second round of the Paris Olympics.
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Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer (via Imago)
Spanish Davis Cup team captain David Ferrer has provided an update on Rafael Nadal‘s chances of playing at this year’s Davis Cup. The former World No.1 has confirmed that he will retire from professional tennis at the end of the tournament.
Nadal has not played any competitive tennis since his losses in both the singles and doubles events at the Paris Olympics. However, Ferrer believes that the former World No.1 will make himself available for Spain if asked.
I have great confidence in Rafa because I have spent my entire career with him, and I know he is honest about whether he feels able to compete or not. My idea after speaking with him is that he is ready to play. I spoke with Rafa on Wednesday, I am also in constant contact with his coach Carlos Moyá and his agent Carlos Costa. They keep me informed of how the situation is developing day by day. I will decide in Malaga which match he will play when I see how he trains…If Nadal trains at a good level and is in good physical shape, he is an option, of course.
David Ferrer said in an interview with Marca
Nadal’s only appearance after the Paris Olympics was at the Six Kings Slam, where he earned an impressive $1.5 million for participating. His most recent match was against Novak Djokovic for third place in the Six Kings Slam, which he lost 6-2, 7-6.
Nadal also withdrew from several events before the Six Kings Slam, including a last-minute decision to skip the Laver Cup. Many had expected that tournament to mark the end of his career, similar to how it was for his long-time rival Roger Federer two years ago.
Pep Guardiola draws comparisons of Rafael Nadal and his Manchester City team
Pep Guardiola has urged his Manchester City players to take inspiration from Rafael Nadal and push through injuries. The City squad is facing a serious injury crisis, with key stars like Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, and Kyle Walker all sidelined. Guardiola is also concerned about the fitness of Savinho, Manuel Akanji, and Josko Gvardiol ahead of their upcoming match against Bournemouth.
There are moments when injuries are [harmful] injuries and be careful but sometimes if you have problems you have to play. Rafa Nadal played all of his career with pain. He played. And won I don’t know how many Grand Slams. You have to deal with it in modern football or you can’t sustain games every three days at a top club. Kevin is getting better. The last two, three days the doctor said to me that he made a step forward in terms of pain.
Pep Guardiola in a pre-match Bournemouth press conference
Guardiola admitted the injury situation is a big problem for his team. However, he wants his players to follow Nadal’s example of playing through pain when needed. Despite the challenges, he expects his squad to stay competitive as they face a busy schedule.
Josko Gvardiol did manage to play and even scored against Bournemouth. But City still suffered a 2-1 defeat, marking their first Premier League loss of the season. They are now second in the table.
City’s injury woes may offer an opportunity for their rivals. Opposing teams could see this as a chance to take points off the defending champions. After being knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Tottenham and now this defeat, Guardiola’s team will be tested further with upcoming matches against Sporting CP and Brighton.
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Fahad Hamid
(673 Articles Published)