Part of the sensations of 2024, the return of Rafael Nadal to the ATP circuit is awaited by many fans. If for some, the Spaniard has regained a high level of performance despite his prolonged absence, others want to be more cautious. For a former world 4th, Nadal will have a hard time making a resounding comeback like Roger Federer was able to do in 2017.
In 2016, the world of tennis was deeply affected by the injury of Roger Federer first on the knee then on the back. The Swiss champion had not won a single Grand Slam that year, but had even worried several fans by not taking part in either Roland-Garrosnor to l’US Open. Returned to its best level in 2017, Federer had then won the Australian Open et Wimbledon. So, many wonder if Rafael Nadal, absent from the courts for almost a year and returning in 2024, will be able to imitate the Swiss…
Tennis: The worst is announced for Nadal! pic.twitter.com/XBIH3S43xm
— le10sport (@le10sport) December 26, 2023
“I don’t know what level or what to expect”
Early December, Rafael Nadal he himself confirmed that he was not sure of his level: “Of course, I had a lot of doubts, there were times when it seemed impossible that this moment would arrive. But we kept the work ethic and we kept the hope, and I think I’m ready to go again. I don’t know what level or what to expect, but it doesn’t matter.”
“I think it’s possible but unlikely”
Former world number 4, Tim Henman estimate that Rafael Nadal will have difficulty imitating Roger Federer on being immediately competitive after his hip injury: “I think it’s possible but unlikely. I would also like to add the fact that Rafa is excellent on hard courts, it’s just that he has a ridiculously different level on clay. So I think the hard courts are a bit of a stepping stone for him. But once again, Rafa is not coming back to make quarters and semi‐finals in some tournaments. He always wants to win the biggest titles. So I think the start of the season will tell us a lot about whether Rafa will be a credible contender for victory,” the latter declared in comments relayed by WeLoveTennis.
2023-12-27 03:36:13
#Tennis #Federerstyle #blow #Nadal #lets
