‘The Foot Was Asleep’- Rafael Nadal Details How He Subsided Pain Before Scripting History at French Open 2022

Rafael Nadal has gone on to create more history after his sensational 14th Grand Slam victory at Roland Garros. With a demolition win versus Casper Ruud, Nadal now stands at a resounding 22 Grand Slams in his remarkable career.

However, the journey to the La Coupe des Mousquetaires wasn’t an easy one for the Spaniard. The 36-year old has battled his way through injuries in recent seasons, missing major events. His return in 2022 now includes two consecutive Grand Slam wins.

Nadal talks about his recurring foot injury

Nadal returned to the Tour after undergoing foot surgery last season. He also has been dealing with a chronic foot condition ever since his early days on the grid. The Spaniard spoke about the injury that he was suffering over the last two weeks in Paris.

Talking to Eurosport he says, “We played with no feeling on the foot. We played with an injection on the nerve…so the foot was asleep, so that’s why I was able to play.”

Nadal also revealed that after the match against Frenchman Corentin Moutet that he was struggling to walk at all. He continued with a foot anesthesia involving a blocking of the nerves to allow him to play. He spent over 11 hours on court since his 4th round match against young gun Félix Auger-Aliassime.

Also Read: ‘Taking Me Into Your Academy With Open Arms’ – French Open 2022 Finalist Casper Ruud Expresses Heart-Felt Gratitude for Rafael Nadal and His Family

Rafael Nadal fought hard to survive despite prolonging foot pain

Despite various injuries, Nadal continues to stun the world with his resounding comeback. After barely featuring in the 2021 season, Nadal now has distanced himself from Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the all-time list.

While Federer turns 41 this year, Djokovic will look to narrow the gap with the Spanish supremo. Nadal’s massive record includes 2 Wimbledon, 2 Australian Open and 4 US Open crowns. Despite retirement rumors, Nadal will look to take some time off and make his return for the latter end of the season.

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Nadal beat the World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev on the way to the final. He has now won all 14 of his finals at Roland Garros. The Spaniard has once again shown the tennis world why he indeed is the ‘GOAT’.