“It Was Painful Tonight”: Rafael Nadal Confirms Foot Injury Troubling Him at Citi Open 2021

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics might have come to an end, but tennis entertainment has just begun. As some of the best athletes begin their journey to the US Open, fans were loving the endless action. Notably, the long-due return of a star is turning out to be the highlight of the Citi Open 2021. Spanish giant, Rafael Nadal, marks his return to the sport in emphatic style as fans give him a roaring welcome.

Earlier this year, Rafael Nadal announced an unprecedented break from the sport, citing needs of physical rest. As a result, he withdrew from the 2021 Wimbledon Championship and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Hence, the crowd was up on their feet as the maestro walked onto the court, ready for battle. However, as he faced America’s Jack Sock in his comeback game, none were ready for what they were about to witness. Nadal indeed tasted victory, in a rather thrilling fashion but with the unfortunate foot injury lurking over his neck, continuity now seems in doubt.

“It was painful tonight”- Rafael Nadal

Rafael indeed started the game strong, winning the first set in dominating style. Putting vintage Rafa on display, he put Jack under immesne pressure. However, as the crowd backed the Spanish giant, his foot gave up on him. Despite finding good rhytmn, coming back after a while was already tough enough; Courtesy of a limping foot now, his comeback looked tougher.

Reflecting upon the same, he said, “The foot is bothering me, it was painful tonight. I had to fight against that and against an opponent who was good enough, so have been a mentally and physcially tough night. Of course it is not not easy to be back on the tour, hard courts after a while with some problems on the foot after the clay courses and I had to cancel a couple of very important events for me. But yeah, when I decided to come here I knew the situation will be very tough, I would be suffering.”  

Regardless, Nadal fought hard and progressed to the next round. Speaking of his outing tomorrow, he said, “Hopefully for tomorrow I’m gonna be better. I don’t know but I gotta do everything I can to be ready for tomorrow. But yeah, always, the victory helps to keep going and tomorrow another opportunity. I really hope to feel myself better. I’m working hard and I hope the foot is gonna be improving.” 

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All hail the great

Rafael Nadal’s epic fightback despite the injury, sent twitter fans into a frenzy. His effort was recognized by all and hailed by many, Not just fans but fellow tennis peers too, were all praise for the Spanish giant.

Undoubtedly, fans will be on the lookout for yet another heoric performance from the Spanish maestro. However, with the foot raising major concerns, a chance at the US Open now is feared.

Read more: WATCH: Vintage Rafael Nadal Makes a Winning Return With Tweener, Sky Hook and More at Citi Open 2021