French Open 2023: Rafael Nadal’s former coach and uncle Toni Nadal has given a big update on the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s retirement. Toni Nadal, who coached Nadal until 2017 said that the Spaniard is not thinking about retirement for now. He also expects his nephew to make a comeback and fight for the title at the Roland Garros this year. Follow Tennis News and LIVE updates on InsideSport.IN
French Open 2023: ‘Rafael Nadal not thinking about retirement’, uncle Toni Nadal has chances to lift another Roland Garros title – Check Out
Rafael Nadal is currently nursing a hip injury following his shock second round exit from the Australian Open earlier this month. With constant injury struggles, while there are talks of the 36-yer old hanging his boots soon, Toni Nadal gave an insight into Nadal’s thinking. Speaking to EFE recently, he said, ” The word ‘retirement’ is not on Rafa’s mind. For now it’s just about making the effort to continue, as he has been doing for a long time now.’
Nadal is expected to make his return just ahead of the French Open this year. He is likely to feature at the Monte Carlo Masters in April. Toni Nadal is of the opinion that his nephew can keep going if he is fully fit. “He is still in good form and, if he is in the right condition, he’ll continue,” he said.
Toni also backed his nephew to win a record 15th French Open title this year. “I trust that he can lift the Roland Garros trophy this year, and then we’ll see.”
Rafael Nadal’s uncle has played a big role in the Spaniard’s career. Toni took Rafa under his wins as early as 1990 and played a vital role in his stellar career. In 2017 the duo parted ways and Toni is currently the coach for World No.9 Felix Auger Aliassime.
While peaking about his nephew, the 61-year old Toni is also aware of the challenge that Novak Djokovic would pose. He spoke highly of the World No.1 by stating, “In the end it’s a complicated fight against a great champion like Djokovic. It’ll be difficult because Djokovic is fresher than him.”
Both Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are now tied with 22 Grand Slam titles each to their name. In the upcoming French Open both the players will battle to become the first player in the men’s singles to win 23 Grand Slam titles. While Djokovic is currently the World No.1 following his Australian Open victory, Nadal has dropped down to 6th spot in the rankings.
French Open 2023: ‘Rafael Nadal not thinking about retirement’, uncle Toni Nadal has chances to lift another Roland Garros title – Check Out
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