However, although the global pandemic caused both tours to be suspended for several months, Rafael Nadal had the satisfaction of having won Roland Garros for the 13th time and setting eternal rival Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam titles.
However, the attempt by the Spanish phenomenon to break the taboo of the ATP Finals was in vain as its run at London’s O2 Arena ended in the semi-finals against Daniil Medvedev. The former number 1 in the world has always been known for her great humility and restraint.
The 34-year-old Manacor native recently admitted that at the age of 16, he never expected to be this successful in his career. During a long interview for the December issue of Celebrity Magazine, the 20-time Grand Slam champion gave some interesting insights into his approach to tennis and life in general.
Nadal: “2020 will have a big impact on the future”
“It would be very arrogant of me to say that as a young man I expected all these successes. At 16 he just wanted to be a pro and win a big tournament one day.
My dream was to win Wimbledon and I did it for the first time in 2008. I have to say that I am very grateful for what life has in store for me. I did not expect to achieve even half of what I achieved ”- said Nadal.
The Mallorcan has reduced his calendar in recent years: “It is not possible to choose as many as there are mandatory events. Obviously this year was an exception. It’s been a while since I started playing only the tournaments that were necessary for my career to continue.
Besides, we all know that it wasn’t a year to be proud of. Fortunately, nobody near me has suffered much from the virus. However, it is a year in which many people died and which will have negative consequences for the future. ”
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