Rafael Nadal once again proved his mettle on clay. The 36-year-old won his 14th French open title back on Sunday. Notably, the current world number 4 was struggling throughout the tournament with his left foot. The Spaniard defied all odds to claim his 22nd Grand Slam title.
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The future of the Spanish legend on the ATP tour will depend on his ongoing treatment for his persistent foot issue. Recently Nadal spoke about the mental space he is in, amidst the critical stage in his career.
Rafael Nadal is in a motivated mental space
While there are various uncontrollable factors that will define the future of his career, Nadal said that he is in a positive mental space. In an interview with Movistar+, the Spaniard said,
“I’m aware this is something that’s approaching the end. I don’t know if what’s left is a short time, 1 year or 2 years. I don’t know. It’ll depend on how this [foot issue] evolves, but in this respect my mind is OK. Mentally I’m motivated & with enthusiasm. My tennis too.”
Rafa: "I'm aware this is something that's approaching the end. I don't know if what's left is a short time, 1 year or 2 years. I don't know. It'll depend on how this [foot issue] evolves, but in this respect my mind is OK, mentally I'm motivated & with enthusiasm. My tennis, too.
— Genny SS (@genny_ss) June 7, 2022
Further, the 22-time Grand Slam champion also emphasized on his performances this season.
Read more: ‘Help Improve the Future’–Rafael Nadal Takes His Training Venture to a Whole New Level
“But, of course, my tennis won’t be good if the foot doesn’t improve and mentally, either, as in the end, one can’t live under constant intense pain,” he added.
But, of course, my tennis won't be good if the foot doesn't improve and mentally, either, as in the end one can't live under constant intense pain. The beginning of the season has gone from very good to very difficult and then now very good again, but in a extreme situation."
— Genny SS (@genny_ss) June 7, 2022
Will Nadal play in Wimbledon?
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Speaking about his participation in the grass-court Grand Slam, the 36-year-old said that he loves the tournament and doesn’t want to miss it. However, he will play only if his body allows him to. As the Spaniard made it clear that he won’t take the court with injections on his foot to curb the pain.
Notably, if the 22-time Grand Slam champion takes part in the Wimbledon Championship, he will have the chance of completing a calendar Grand Slam.
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A feat that only Rod Laver and Steffi Graf have achieved. Although the possibility has got his fans excited, only time will tell if the mercurial Spaniard can overcome his injury woes and compete for the remaining two Grand Slam titles.