Spain’s legendary tennis star Rafael Nadal’s uncle, Toni Nadal, has asserted that the former world number one will only compete in the upcoming French Open if he believes he can secure the title. The 37-year-old Nadal, often hailed as one of the greatest players in the history of men’s tennis, boasts an impressive record of 22 Grand Slam titles.
In recent years, Nadal has faced numerous fitness challenges, leading him to announce that the 2024 season would be his last at the top level. Despite making a comeback earlier this year, his performance has not met the high expectations set by his illustrious career. In light of these circumstances, Toni Nadal emphasized that Nadal’s participation in Roland Garros hinges on his confidence in winning the tournament.
“He’s not going to drag himself,” Toni Nadal said, highlighting his nephew’s determined mentality. “He will not go to Roland Garros to lose in the second round, he will only go if he thinks he can win the tournament. A dream end would be to win Roland Garros and retire, but I think that if he does that he will want to continue. He would not retire.”
Toni Nadal also recalled the 2022 Australian Open, where Rafael Nadal triumphed despite having just recovered from Covid-19 days before traveling. His victory in Australia underscored his resilience and ability to perform under challenging circumstances, reinforcing the idea that Nadal would only enter the French Open with a genuine belief in his chances to win.
As the tennis world anticipates Nadal’s decision, his legacy as the ‘King of Clay’ remains undeniable. Whether he competes at Roland Garros or not, his impact on the sport and his extraordinary career will continue to inspire tennis fans globally.