“It is inspiring to see a 34 year old who has won everything, still crying with victory'” Daria Kasatkina reveals her admiration for Rafael Nadal

Daria Kasatkina, currently ranked 72 in the WTA rankings, is one of the most talented players on tour. The 23 year old Russian who currently resides in Spain, had a career high ranking of 10 which she achieved in 2018. Her form has suffered a major dip since then and she has been outside the top 50 WTA rankings for most of the year.

Daria Kasatkina revealed her admiration for Rafael Nadal after he won his 13th French Open title in October. The Russian was moved by the Spaniard’s dedication to tennis in spite of winning almost everything in the past 15 years. In a latest interview to Marca, the Russian was moved by the tears pouring down Rafael Nadal’s eyes after he won his 13th French Open title.

“When you see a 34-year-old, who has won everything, and is still crying with victory, it is really inspiring, to see that he is still hungry from the first day,”Kasatkina said.

Related: “It still means so much to him and this is the real love for the sport,” Russian Tennis star on Nadal’s French Open triumph

For me the history of men’s tennis is linked to five sets: Daria Kasatkina

Novak Djokovic had earlier suggested an idea of reducing the Grandslam matches to three sets for the men’s event. However, Kasatkina stated that she did not favour the idea as it would be unfair for the players who won the earlier events in five sets.

“It is true that I have not played five sets, but for me the history of men’s tennis is linked to five sets. For me it would not be fair for players who have won in five that now the same can be won in three,” said the Russian.

Daria Kasatkina also revealed her plans for the next season where she hopes to do better and work on the momentum she built in the last part of 2020. The Russian reached the last 16 of the Ostrava Open, after winning three consecutive matches, starting from the qualifying rounds.

“It’s hard to tell when you don’t know what’s going to happen. I finished the season with a very good feeling and I want to extend it as long as possible. It is important to stay healthy in body and head, more than victories,” said Kasatkina.

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