Rafael Nadal has delivered a somber update on his prospects for the upcoming French Open, indicating that he will only participate if he feels sufficiently prepared to compete at a high level. The 14-time Roland Garros champion admitted that if the tournament began today, he wouldn’t be able to play, but he remains determined to strive for the opportunity to compete at one of his most successful events once more.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen in the next three weeks. I will keep fighting and doing the things I believe I have to do so I can try to play in Paris, and if I can play, I play, if I can’t, I can’t,” Nadal conveyed to reporters at the Madrid Open. “I will not play in Paris if I am the way I am now. If Paris were today, I wouldn’t take to the court. That’s the reality. I will only play in Paris if I feel capable enough to compete well.”
Acknowledging the challenges he has faced with injuries, Nadal emphasized that missing the French Open would not mark the end of his career. Despite setbacks, he remains focused on his goals beyond Roland Garros, such as the Olympics.
Nadal’s return to the court in Brisbane earlier this year following a lengthy hiatus due to a hip injury was brief, and he has encountered further setbacks, participating in only five matches this season. Despite not feeling fully prepared, he is determined to take part in the Madrid Open, where he is set to face American teenager Darwin Blanch in his opening match.
Reflecting on his current situation, Nadal expressed gratitude for being able to play again, even if not at his peak level. While he acknowledges the challenges he faces, particularly in bidding farewell to cherished tournaments like the Madrid Open, he remains committed to making the most of his time on the court.
Nadal highlighted that while he feels good hitting the ball when he’s on the court, his body’s limitations have been a significant hurdle. He expressed frustration with ongoing physical issues that prevent him from competing with the freedom he desires.
His remarks struck a chord with tennis fans, many of whom expressed their sadness at the prospect of his eventual retirement. One user lamented, “The day Rafael Nadal retires will be the saddest day in tennis,” while another described the possibility of Nadal retiring without a final French Open appearance as a “modern-day tennis tragedy.” Another fan emphasized Nadal’s synonymous association with Roland Garros, stating, “Rafa IS Roland Garros. This is heartbreaking.”
Despite the challenges, Nadal remains a formidable opponent, with his upcoming match against Darwin Blanch generating excitement. Blanch, who was not yet born when Nadal made his debut at the Spanish capital event in 2003, expressed nerves and excitement about facing the tennis icon. He acknowledged the overwhelming support Nadal is likely to receive from the crowd but remained focused on enjoying the experience.
