Rafael Nadal brings positive news to his adoring fans ahead of the Spaniardās first Roland Garros appearance since 2022. Preparing for just his fifth tournament of the year, the 14-time champion has made noticeable physical progress, even since competing in Rome two weeks ago.
āI am improving in different ways. I have less limitations than three, four weeks ago, without a doubt,ā Nadal said in Saturdayās press conference. āI am having a good week of practices. I probably will say this is the first week since I came back playing tennis that I am able to run the proper way without having a lot of limitations. That encourages me.
āIn the practices, without a doubt I improved. Especially in terms of movements. So I donāt feel the limitations that I felt in Rome in terms of running to both sides, so thatās a lot
This fortnight is likely to be Nadalās final showing at the seasonās second major, where he boasts an unrivalled 112-3 match record across 18 appearances. But save the emotional farewell for another day: the former No. 1 in the PIF ATP Rankings cited three important reasons why he continues to relish each moment on Tour.
āIn some way I donāt want to close the door 100 per cent, because of a very simple thing,ā Nadal said. āFirst thing, I am enjoying playing tennis. Second thing, I am travelling with [my] family. They are enjoying it. I am enjoying sharing all this process with them. And third thing, I was not able to explore yet the proper way of how I will be able to play being in more or less healthy conditions, playing without limitation.ā
While Nadal enters Paris in his best physical shape this clay season, luck drew him no favours to begin the tournament. The 22-time major titlist faces fourth seed and Rome champion Alexander Zverev in a blockbuster first-round match. Nadal learned of his place in the draw while indulging in a Spanish board game.
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