“I’m Like Rafael Nadal”: French Tennis Player Reveals He Doesn’t Need a Mental Trainer

Fans were disappointed when Rafael Nadal announced his withdrawal from the US Open 2021 and the rest of the 2021 season due to a foot injury. The Spaniard last played at the Citi Open 2021 where, unfortunately, he could not get past the Round of 16.

There has been an increasing focus on the psychological health of professional athletes in recent years. Accordingly, many tennis players are actually hiring psychologists and mental trainers in order to get themselves in the best mental state for the games. They also help the players to avoid any sort of mental stress. However, Rafael Nadal is one athlete who still doesn’t have a mental preparer in his coaching team.

“I am like Rafael Nadal”- Arthur Rinderknech

In a recent interview, French tennis player Arthur Rinderknech opened up about the inclusion of a mental trainer in his coaching staff. He revealed that he is just like Nadal and doesn’t need a mental preparer right now.

“I am like Rafael Nadal on this subject, I think it is up to my coach to have this competence. I can’t separate his from the game, training, the player’s knowledge to the daily life, his personal life,” said Rinderknech in the interview.

Rinderknech suggested that for now, his coach actually takes care of his mental health as well. He mentioned that he shares even his personal details with him and the two have a great bond.

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Rinderknech didn’t rule out having a mental preparer in the future

Even though Rinderknech doesn’t have a mental preparer in his team right now, he believes that anything can take place in the future. He even stated that he understands the conditions of those who need a proper mental preparer in their coaching staff.

“I see things that way. But I can also understand that others are more comfortable with a clearly defined mental preparer,” added the World No.70 player.

The World No. 70, Arthur Rinderknech is yet to win a ATP title this year. Will he be able to end his year on a high?

Also Read: “Even Rafael Nadal Never Did That”: Coach Patrick Mouratoglou Heaps Praise on Serena Williams