“I have not signed a multi-million dollar contract!” Rafael Nadal, who faced a lot of criticism for Saudi deal, breaks silence on the decision with startling confidence

“I have not signed a multi-million dollar contract!” Rafael Nadal, who faced a lot of criticism for Saudi deal, breaks silence on the decision with startling confidence

Rafael Nadal in a press conference. (credits: la Repubblica)

22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal who is currently sidelined with injury has raised a lot of fuss around the tennis world concerning the Saudi takeover. Many fans feel that the Spanish legend has lost his urge to perform at the highest level with rumours circulating that he has signed a multi-billion dollar deal with the Arabian country.

Despite making a powerful comeback this year after being out of action for the entire season last year, the Manacor-born star yet again stated that he is not hundred percent match-fit and needs match time before he features in the Indian Wells in March. In an interview session on the sets of Cope’s El Partidazo, host Angel Garcia tried to get the most out of him as he asked him about his recent withdrawal from the Doha Open.

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When asked about the rumors of him getting inflicted in the Saudi takeover of the sport, Nadal instantly denied the accusations marking them as vague. He stated that he is there to help the country adapt to the sport as Saudi is currently on a mission to make the Arabian state the epicenter of tennis.

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If I say I'm going to do this project for free, maybe it's not so frowned upon. I think that factor distorts my work. I have not signed a multi-million dollar contract with Saudi, I swear; That's not going to improve my life. I have done it because I am excited about the future, what I am going to do.
Nadal said.

Rafael Nadal’s take on the upcoming months:

Having taken his name out of the Doha Open, Garcia asked him about his future in the interview. Nadal clearly stated that the possibility of fulfilling his plans looks kind of slim to him. He added things aren’t going in his favor and that there is a lot of difference between what he is currently aiming for and what he is going to achieve in reality.

Rafael Nadal in action during a match. (credits: Sky Sports)
What I want to play and what I am going to play is very different. What I wanted my calendar to be is not going to be. It will be what it can be. My hope is to play the dirt season in acceptable conditions and today's decision is aimed at that.

Nadal went on to express his feelings and interest in playing the all-auspicious Roland Garros for possibly one last time. The 14-time French Open winner has kept that as a priority for this season, which could be his last season in the sport. Nadal also talked about being cautious for the months prior to the clay tournament as he looks to feature in the competition in full fitness.

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