Rafael Nadal had a fantastic year, but it was also one where he struggled with injuries a lot. Angel Ruiz Cotorro, a wonderful doctor whom he has always admired, was by the side of the 22-time Grand Slam champion during his hard times.
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In his book, ‘Rafa: My Story’, he talks about his doctor and his crucial participation in his professional tennis career. The Spaniard’s longtime physician is a well-known sports medicine specialist. The famous doctor has treated various well-known players, including Juan Martin del Potro and Arantxa Sanchez Vicario, in addition to the former world number one.
Rafael Nadal and the immense trust that he places in his physician
The 22 time Grand Slam champion has never shied away from thanking his doctor, and has considered him a part of his success. Even in his book, he has written about the trust that he holds for his doctor, and detailed an incident when he suffered an injury after playing against Ljubicic in Madrid.
After his match in 2005, Nadal suffered a foot injury and talked about talking crucial medical care that Ruiz Cotorro gave. It would have been more difficult for him if his doctor was not beside him at his crucial point. His suggestions have helped him do wonders in his game and even play after facing injuries.
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He wrote, “I trust Dr. Cotorro with may life. He was my doctor then, he remains my doctor today, and if I have anything to do with it he will remain my doctor till the day I retire. But he was unable to come up with a diagnosis, or with any advice beyond more rest. So that’s what I did, for two more weeks.”
Nadal’s struggle with abdominal injury
The Spaniard was unable to resume his winning streak this year after winning two consecutive Grand Slam titles due to an injury in his abdomen. The tennis player made it obvious that he will take a sabbatical even after his loss at the US Open, and even withdrew from the Laver Cup for the same reason.
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However, he participated in the Laver Cup for his arch-rival and good friend, Roger Federer’s farewell game, and soon after withdrew his name from the tournament. Seeing the 22-time Grand Slam winner support the Swiss maestro was wonderful. For now, the Spaniard and his wife are all set to welcome a baby boy into the world.