Nadal is Like Messi: Carlos Moya

Spanish world number 1, Rafael Nadal recently returned to action from a hip injury. Now, he will be defending his 4,680 ATP points during the clay-court season. His coach, Carlos Moya praised Nadal’s team spirit during the Davis Cup.

In his comeback attempt, he guided Spain past Germany in the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup. Nadal cruised to victory in both of his rubbers, including a straight-sets victory over World No 4 Alexander Zverev.

According to Moya, Nadal gives his country an advantage that is similar to that what Messi gives his club Barcelona. The Argentinian has helped the La Liga giant top the La Liga table this season and on several occasions.

In September, Spain will take on France in the semi-finals of the Davis Cup. Moya believes that Nadal’s presence in the team will give them a huge advantage.

“Besides his motivation and his team spirit, being next to Rafa takes away pressure,” Moya said.

“You almost have the guarantee that he will win his two singles (matches), which helps his teammates to be free.

“I would compare it with (Leo) Messi in Barcelona.”

Moya revealed that his ward, Nadal has adjusted his game ever since he won his first major tournament 14 years ago.

“14 years later keeps winning Grand Slam titles and is No 1, obviously had to evolve,” he added.

“He is better, more experienced, physically with limits due to age, but as time goes on he has understood the game, taken correct decisions, known that what he was doing at 20 years old now is not needed.”

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The Spaniard’s next course of action will be at the Monte Carlo Masters where he will try and defend his crown next week. Following Monte Carlo, there is the Italian Open, the last stop before Roland Garros.