Fans have been quite concerned since Rafael Nadal stepped back from playing the Australian Open 2024. Everyone in the tennis world was excited about the amazing rally of the Spaniard as it was highly likely to be his last. A new wave of expectations recently emerged as the fans got to know about Nadal’s entry in the Indian Wells. Thomas Drouet recently gave his insights into Rafa’s playing form in an exclusive interview with EssentiallySports.
The Spaniard’s physical status has been noted to be sensitive because of the aggression that the tennis legend is used to carry. While his involvement in the upcoming tour carries enough risk, Rafa’s former hitting partner Thomas Drouet recently came forward with another scare.
Rafael Nadal’s former associate adds a layer of fear amid the Indian Wells anticipation in an ES Exclusive
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Rafael Nadal’s return to the court at Indian Wells and Doha aroused a sense of excitement among the fans once again. Besides the anticipation to see him back on the court, the news of his return sparked worries as well. Considering the events that took place at the Brisbane International, the fans are currently worried about Rafa’s ability to endure the intensity of top-level tennis.
Our hero is coming back 🔙#rafaelnadal #nadal #tennis #legend #GOAT pic.twitter.com/OI9br4RSN3
— The Roger Federer & Rafael Nadal Dynasty (@RogerRafaLegacy) February 6, 2024
Former hitting partner and WTA coach, Thomas Drouet recently came forward with a verdict on his physical status in an ES exclusive interview. He mentioned, “It’s not in terms of level. He’s still an amazing player, but his body, I don’t think his body is not able anymore to handle this discharge, you know, this intensity.” Drouet also highlighted the challenges faced by Nadal in the past, comparing it to what waits for him in the future.
“He played one match and the next match boom, he got injured. And just imagine, for men, it’s best of five. Even if they are at the maximum, it’s already not easy, but if they are at 70%, then..,” he told EssentiallySports. As the tennis community eagerly waits for Nadal’s return, it still remains to be seen if he will step in with precautions this time.
Rafa to cross Doha before Indian Wells
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As the whole tennis community is excited to see Rafael Nadal’s name in the entry list of the BNP Paribas Open, there’s still a milestone before reaching out to the major event. Rafa, who has been going through a tough time because of multiple injuries, will be playing in the ATP 250 event in Doha.
🇺🇸 Rafael Nadal has entered into the Indian Wells Entry List.
Seems, if healthy, he’ll play the Doha ATP 250 in 2 weeks and then Indian Wells, before, presumably, skipping Miami.
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) February 5, 2024
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As the tournament is scheduled to commence in just two weeks from now, it would surely act as a stepping stone for Rafa to get back in form. While fans are approaching the announcement with mixed reactions, it still remains to be seen how it turns out to be.
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