‘Rafael Nadal This Weekend Was Inspiring’: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga Pens an Emotional Message After Returning to the ATP Tour With a Win

Rafael Nadal, with his victory over Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open 2022 final, stunned the world. Not only did he win a Grand Slam, but he also secured a record-breaking 21st major title.

Before winning the championship, Nadal was equal with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in all-time Grand Slams won. Thus, Rafa has surpassed his longtime rivals in that aspect. Undoubtedly, Rafa’s victory was awe-inspiring, to say the very least. Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, too, echoed the sentiment.

Rafael Nadal inspired Jo-Wilfried Tsonga all the way in Montpellier

The Montpellier Open began on the 1st of February. It is an ATP 250, indoor hardcourt event. Former World No.5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga won his round-of-32 match against Polish Kacper Zuk in straight sets.

The Frenchman, who defeated his Polish opponent 6-4,6-4, stated that it was Rafael Nadal‘s victory in Melbourne that had motivated him. “Rafael Nadal this weekend was inspiring,” said Tsonga after winning his match.

This was Tsonga’s first ATP match since Wimbledon 2021. Earlier, Tsonga had won the Montpellier Open in 2019.

“I’m super happy to win. It means a lot,” Tsonga shared after his first round win. Furthermore, Rafa’s victory sent Tsonga a special message and realization. In Tsonga’s own words, seeing Rafa win made him realize that “despite the fact that we are aging, less well physically than at 25, we are still a generation and special players”.

He also mentioned compatriot Gael Monfils, saying that he too is one of the players who is of a certain age but “are still performing well” and are “still at the top of the rankings”.

(Quotes have been translated using Google Translate)

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Nadal contemplated retirement a few months ago

Following his foot injury last year, Rafael Nadal had to skip the US Open 2021. Moreover, his recovery took quite a while, as he spent almost six months away from the tour, effectively ending his season.

Furthermore, he even considered retiring, as he was not sure he would be able to play like he used to. His uncle and former coach Toni Nadal revealed that prior to leaving for Australia, Rafael Nadal had believed that it would be the last time he’d be going Down Under.

However, things have changed radically now, as Rafa himself admitted that he would be looking forward to playing in front of the Australian crowd again next year. For now, the Spaniard must surely be getting ready for Roland Garros, where he holds a record 13 Grand Slam titles.

On the other hand, his rival Novak Djokovic might be able to play the French Open as well. Are you excited to see the two great legends possibly face off in France?

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