WATCH: Rafael Nadal gives it his best shot on clay as he sweats it out ahead of Roland Garros despite injury complications

Nadal recently withdrew from the 2024 Monte Carlo Masters despite initially planning to make his clay debut at the event in Monaco.

WATCH: Rafael Nadal gives it his best shot on clay as he sweats it out ahead of Roland Garros despite injury complications

Rafael Nadal (Images via IMAGO, X)

Former World No. 1 Rafael Nadal continues his desperate attempt to make a comeback on the Tour. Out injured since his only Tour appearance earlier this season in Brisbane, the Spaniard has been working hard to return. 

He was initially scheduled to play in the 2024 Indian Wells Masters but made a last-minute withdrawal hours before his first-round match. He then aimed to return to the 2024 Monte Carlo Masters, but his injuries continued to hold him back from playing. As a result, the 11-time champ had to withdraw yet again.

YouTube video

With time running out for him, he remains adamant about not giving up. The ultimate target for him remains the 2024 French Open, where he will eye his 15th title and 23rd career Grand Slam singles title. But there’s a long road ahead, and the King of Clay is well aware of this. 

FS Video

He was recently seen sweating it out on the red soil at his academy. While he has made no comment on his next tournament, it looks likely he might play in the 2024 Madrid Masters, followed by the 2024 Rome Masters, if he can maintain fitness. 

The Spaniard showed his complete range of shots in the video. The powerful forehand, the two-handed backhand, drop shots, and slides on the court were all visible, with his trademark grunt quite audible in the video. 

Rafael Nadal’s career seems to be in its final few days

The 22-time singles Major winner had already hinted at the 2024 season being his final one. Although he didn’t give any confirmation, he talked about it quite seriously. But it seems, the hints are turning into reality.

Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

With only one tournament appearance so far this season, Nadal has been crippled by injuries non-stop. His love for clay is well documented, and it gives rise to speculations on whether the Spaniard will retire at the end of the French Open this year. 

If it indeed does happen, World No. 1 Novak Djokovic will be declared the winner in the race of the Big 3. The Serb has already won 24 singles Grand Slam titles and is just one Major away from becoming the most decorated singles champion at Grand Slam events in the history of the sport. 

With Nadal already trailing by two, it’s nearly impossible that he can catch up with Nole. Many have already declared Djokovic the ultimate GOAT. However, Nadal retiring early and easing up the path for his Serbian counterpart will most likely put an end to all debates. 

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