“I am going through tough moments,” ‘Comeback king’ Rafael Nadal pours his heart out after bagging his first clay win in two years

Rafael Nadal gets real after a big win at the Barcelona Open.

“I am going through tough moments,” ‘Comeback king’ Rafael Nadal pours his heart out after bagging his first clay win in two years

Rafael Nadal (via IMAGO)

‘King Of Clay’ Rafael Nadal picked up from where he left off, as he did not fail to dazzle the Barcelona crowd on his first clay match in over two years. Despite all the injury setbacks, the Spaniard kept coming back, showing his resilience and intent. 

After suffering a minor injury before the Australian Open, Nadal has been on the sidelines. Not being able to get back to 100%, he kept delaying his return time before making the second phase of his comeback at the Barcelona Open. 

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He was up against Flavio Cobolli in the first round, as he hoped to make his mark on the court. Nothing had changed for the Spaniard who continued his usual dominant performance on the clay court. With accurate forehands and serves, Nadal put his opponent on the back foot. A huge moment for the Spaniard as he secured his first victory in Barcelona.

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After the win, Nadal poured his heart out in the post-match interview. Acknowledging the difficulties, the Spaniard also shared how happiness has now flowed in after getting back on court. Extremely delighted with the win, Nadal hoped to continue the form.

I tried a lot of times in my career. Every time is more difficult. Especially when you’re older it makes things even tougher, no? I’m going through tough moments. At the same time, when I’m able to be on tour for a few days and practice with the guys and then compete a bit means a lot to me. It’s still enjoyable enough for me to keep going. 
Rafael Nadal said in the post-match interview

Rafael Nadal doubted his abilities against his next opponent Alex de Minaur at the Barcelona Open

Spanish Maestro Rafael Nadal, entering the clay courts after almost two years, continued the brilliant work that he has always done for the sport. Despite being up against a good-level opponent, he tuned into his old tennis to swat the Italian away. 

Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

After the 6-2, 6-3 win in under one and a half hours, the Spaniard moved up the tournament rounds and now he gears up to face Alex de Minaur. The Australian has performed quite well over the last couple of months, including a win against Novak Djokovic, and a couple of good wins otherwise. Known for his speed, de Minaur is up against another speedster Nadal, who is rather underconfident, heading into the game. 

It will be at a speed that I don't know if I will be able to.
 said Rafael Nadal after the game

With the tournament just starting, Nadal is already on the names of possible winners. Having won the tournament 12 other times, the Spaniard would hope to make it 13 and get back into form before the French Open.

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