“Rafael Nadal maybe the greatest ever player” says fellow countryman Feliciano Lopez


“Rafael Nadal maybe the greatest ever player” says fellow countryman Feliciano Lopez

Rafael Nadal and Feliciano Lopez

Feliciano Lopez, World No. 60 from Spain has been one of the most successful Spanish player behind Rafael Nadal. Lopez was part of 5 Davis Cup winning teams, with 4 of those titles coming in 7 years from 2004-2011.

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The 39-year old made his debut in 1997 and brought Spain again in limelight with his game. In 2005, he became the first Spaniard to reach the quarter-finals of Wimbledon since 1972 and has played the most number of 5-setters that have gone beyond 6-6 and is highly regarded in Spanish Tennis.

Lopez has seen the rise of Spanish great Rafael Nadal and like all others has been fan of the King of Clay. The duo together have contested in many Davis Cup ties for Spain bringing glory and laurels to their homeland.

Nadal won his 12th Barcelona Open in 2021, a record in its own at the age of 34, a feat not many players have achieved. Speaking about this achievement of Nadal, Lopez said, “Not many 34-year-old players can think of being where he is right now. Rafa just gets better and better.”

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“Rafael Nadal has the ability to continue with 34 years at a high level, physically and mentally to continue winning” says Lopez

Feliciano Lopez and Rafael Nadal
Feliciano Lopez and Rafael Nadal

Lopez pointed out how even at mid-30s Nadal is going on and winning titles. “Few players with 34 years could think that they would be where he (Rafael Nadal) is right now,” Lopez said. “He has shown that he is with the illusion intact and that is also very complicated. I find the moment in which he is (currently at) incredible, (and) I even see him get better in tennis.”

“Age does not forgive, but Rafa has the ability to continue with 34 years at a high level, physically and mentally to continue winning.” said Lopez. “He will stay on tour for a while longer. He may be the greatest player ever.”

Lopez may well be in his last years on the tour but Nadal surely will continue for more and will keep mesmerising his fans with his gameplay.

Also Read: ‘You learn a lot from a 20-time Grand Slam winner,’ Sinner on training with Nadal

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