Injured Rafael Nadal still the favorite over Novak Djokovic at French Open asserts Reilly Opelka

American tennis player Reilly Opelka believes Rafael Nadal's chances of winning the French Open remain high if he participates, citing his impressive track record at Roland Garros.

Injured Rafael Nadal still the favorite over Novak Djokovic at French Open asserts Reilly Opelka

Reilly Opelka and Rafael Nadal (Credits: TennisWorld)

Reilly Opelka has suggested that Rafael Nadal is still the prime candidate to win the French Open due to his extraordinary performance history at Roland Garros. Despite being sidelined with a significant injury to his psoas muscle since the Australian Open, the 36-year-old Spaniard was originally planning to make a comeback at the beginning of the clay season.

Unfortunately, he had to withdraw from Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Madrid. Even if he manages to participate in the French Open, his preparation time will be minimal. Nevertheless, his unprecedented success of winning the French Open 14 times cannot be discounted.

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“If Rafa Nadal is still in the draw, if he’s in the tournament, if my life is on the line, I’m going with Rafa every time, just out of respect, you kind of have to. But behind Rafa, for sure, I’d say Carlos is the only guy who could beat him there, and also, I like his chances against Novak at the French Open,” Opelka said.

A week ago, Nadal posted an extensive message to his supporters, wherein he disclosed his plan to pursue a fresh therapy, with the aspiration that it would be efficacious and enable him to compete at the French Open.

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Toni Nadal expects Rafael Nadal to play at French Open

Rafael Nadal and Toni Nadal
Rafael Nadal and Toni Nadal (Credits: Twitter)

According to Toni Nadal, the former coach and uncle of Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam winner is on track to return to the court in time for the French Open next month. Nadal has been recovering from a hip injury that has kept him sidelined since January, but his uncle expressed confidence that he will be ready to compete at Rome in May.

Although Nadal’s injury has prevented him from playing in several tournaments, he is expected to make his comeback in Paris. Determining his chances of success at the French Open will largely depend on how well he trains in the upcoming weeks and his performance in Rome.

Nadal secured his 14th French Open title last year, setting a new record. However, his age and persistent injury problems may pose a challenge in surpassing Novak Djokovic for the most Grand Slam titles. Despite the challenges, Nadal remains determined to compete at the highest level and is working hard to regain his fitness and form ahead of the upcoming tournament.

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