“I will try not to cross lines,” ‘Realistic’ Rafael Nadal manages his wobbly steps into clay cautiously despite a thrilling comeback win in Barcelona

Nadal defeated Cobolli in straight sets to register a win in his first match on clay since winning the 2022 French Open singles title.

“I will try not to cross lines,” ‘Realistic’ Rafael Nadal manages his wobbly steps into clay cautiously despite a thrilling comeback win in Barcelona

Rafael Nadal (Image via IMAGO)

Former World No. 1 Rafael Nadal returned to the Tour for the first time since his quarter-final exit at the 2024 Brisbane International. After multiple failed comebacks, Nadal finally played his second event of the season at the 2024 Barcelona Open.

Up against Italian youngster Flavio Cobolli, Nadal won the match 6-2, 6-3 in one hour and 25 minutes. It was the 67th match win at the ATP-500 tournament for the 12-time title winner. Acknowledging his record, it’s no surprise that the center court at the tournament site is called ‘Pista Rafa Nadal’.

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While the return was a joyous occasion for him and his loyal fans, the Spaniard is not getting carried away. Knowing his physical limitations and the challenge of staying fit for the near future, the 22-time Grand Slam singles title winner has his objective clear for this week. 

For me, the most important thing is that nothing happens to me. Maybe this is not the week where I can do everything my heart tells me. The fact of playing makes me very happy, and having won today, it allows me to play again tomorrow. I will try not to cross lines that could be dangerous.
Said Rafael Nadal speaking with the press.

Nadal admitted that he feels confident in terms of being competitive on the Tour after the match in Barcelona. He compared the feeling after the match to his training sessions a week ago, indicating he’s moving in a positive direction. But he remains cautious and realistic. 

From how I looked one week to today, there is an important change. I see myself as competitive, and that is the most important thing in sports, things change very quickly. My mind dreams of aspiring too much, but the reality today is different. I have to be realistic.
Added Rafael Nadal.

Nadal’s movement during the match showed this. Despite displaying the entire arsenal of his shots, he looked hesitant at times to go after the ball where his body could be potentially tested. In such circumstances, the Spaniard believes precaution is better than cure, given he is playing his potential farewell season. 

Rafael Nadal has a daunting task in the second round

Following his first-round win, the unseeded Nadal will take on World No. 11 Alex de Minaur. The Australian has been in fine form this season. He has reached two finals on hardcourt, winning the one in Acapulco, where he was the defending champion. 

Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal in action at the 2024 Barcelona Open (Via Imago)

On clay, the Aussie made his debut at the 2024 Monte Carlo Masters last week. He was defeated in the quarterfinals by World No. 1 Novak Djokovic.

While not being a good player on clay traditionally, the 25-year-old showed good form in the event in Monaco, making things further difficult for the Spaniard.

However, if history tells us anything, it is to never rule out Nadal on clay. The 14-time French Open winner has battled worse odds and still emerged successful after nursing a chronic foot injury all these years. While the chances are less, it’s certainly not impossible for one of the greatest fighters on the Tour in history. 

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