Rafael Nadal optimistic to triumph French Open 2020 title like ‘so many comebacks’
rafael nadal
Rafael Nadal will be in action on Day 1 of the French Open 2020 main draw matches. The Spaniard is set to defend his title on the French clay while fighting for his 13th title at Roland Garros.
Nadal is called the King of Clay for his phenomenal record of the clay surface. He has been away from the tour before returning to the Italian Open, in which he crashed out to Diego Schwartzman in quarters.
“I have to accept this challenge” Rafa is ready for battle
It was after 6 months that the Spaniard (Ranked 2 in the world) played a match at ATP tour. His game was sharp, he was moving quick and serving well. Rafa looked too clean to be without match practice for half a year. Yet he failed to defend his title at the Italian Open. At a recent interview with Les Echos, Rafa spoke about the upcoming French Open and his contributions to the tennis world recently.
“Everyone will be affected by these unprecedented circumstances. This period is going to be a test. We will see how things evolve in the coming weeks,” Nadal said.
The 19 time Grand slam champion sounded really positive before the French Open. He acknowledged his past victories after making a comeback.
“I have to keep the attitude as positive as possible knowing that getting back to the track is never easy at the start. I have to accept this challenge and that I will not necessarily have the best feeling of the game. But with the right attitude… I have already made so many comebacks after long periods without playing!,” Rafa added.
Rafael Nadal is a champion and he sounded like one at the interview. When asked on his favourite Roland Garros victory, the Spaniard had a hard time choosing.
”I have so many. Maybe the victory in 2017, it was very special, my tenth title,” Nadal said.
“But honestly I have enjoyed all these years and not just on the court. I have a lot of friends at the French federation, among the people who work on the tournament. I feel a bit at home there. I can feel the support of the crowd, of the people there. It’s something hard to describe but when you play and get that support you feel great,” he added.
Also Read: Italian Open 2020: Rafael Nadal eases past Pablo Carreno Busta on ATP return
Rafa’s deeds other than playing
The Spaniard has been off the tour for over a year. When he was asked if he sees himself as a coach, he promptly replied in the affirmative.
”I wouldn’t say that (coaching) will never happen,” Nadal continued.
The Rafa Nadal Academies are one of the ventures by Rafael, talking about them he said, “I have an academy and I like to give advice to young players and coaches there, so I can see myself helping these young people in the future.”
Another remarkable effort by Rafa was helping the underprivileged. He has helped people through his foundation and by uniting with basketball player Pau Gasol for Red Cross. He further helped the flood victims in Mallorca.
“this is something completely natural. I think I’ve been very lucky in my life so somehow I have to give back. I created our foundation ten years ago and we are working hard to give opportunities to young people, especially children,” Rafa said.
Rafael Nadal will be in action at the French Open from Sunday.
Also Read: French Open 2020: Can Rafa win his 13th title and equal Roger Federer’s record
Jagriti Choudhry
(329 Articles Published)