Toni Nadal Thinks Rafa Can Beat Roger’s Tally of 19

Rafael Nadal’s long time coach and uncle, Toni Nadal appeared in an interview for Efe Radio recently. He said that he hoped that Rafa can overtake Roger Federer’s grand slam tally of 19. Nadal defeated Kevin Anderson in straight sets to win his 16 grand slam title. He achieved the feat earlier this year at the Flushing Meadows. Toni Nadal believes that Rafa has a very good chance of winning more, if he stays fit and healthy.

‘I want Rafa to overcome Federer’s Grand slam titles’, he said during the interview. He also added, ‘I know it won’t be easy, but I didn’t think Federer could win more too. Federer seems to be eternal, but I think Rafa can overcome him.’

Laver Cup

Rafa and Roger teamed up to play doubles for the very first time in the Laver Cup recently. They were playing for team Europe, and they absolutely enthralled fans all over the world. Toni says, that although it was a moment to cherish, it is highly unlikely that they will play doubles together again. Toni Nadal said ‘Federer and Nadal, like Real Madrid and Barcelona, made the popularity of tennis increase. It would be good for tennis to see them play together again, but at the moment both of them are focused on singles’.

Toni Nadal is set to retire as Rafa’s head coach at the end of the year, handing over the reins to long time friend and mentor, Carlos Moya. During the interview he was asked about his best moments with Rafa. This was after a long career filled with numerous titles together. ‘As best titles, I would choose the first one in Monte Carlo, Roland Garros and Wimbledon. These ones were most special than any other’, replied Toni Nadal. He also added that Rafa will now shift his focus to win the ATP finals title which has eluded him. Toni Nadal thinks Rafa has a good chance of winning it for the first time this year, with the absence of players like Stan Wawrinka, Milos Raonic, Novak Djokovic and Kei Nishikori.