‘What Is It, 22 Majors?’ – Rafael Nadal’s Extraordinary Achievements Make John McEnroe Lose Track

Rafael Nadal is one of the most dedicated players tennis has ever seen. The 22-time Grand Slam champion is a live example of endurance and strong willpower. Earlier, he fought the odds and not only made a comeback but also claimed the title in the Australian Open.

Thereafter, with his foot injury, he clinched the title at the Grand Slam of clay. Now the Spaniard is gearing up for the US Open trophy with his injury from Wimbledon still in recovery. However, when Nadal’s performance is the topic, no one can deny the fact that he isn’t going to let go easily. In fact, the veteran John McEnroe is confident enough to bet his stakes on him.

McEnroe has high expectations from Rafael Nadal

While speaking about the upcoming tournament and the fate of the players in it, the seven-time Grand Slam champion sounded really hopeful about Nadal’s run. He said, “What we do know is that he could win this because he just won the Australian Open having not played.”

Thereafter, he added, “Rafa is definitely one of the favourites. There’s no question about it. Rafa has as good a chance as anyone to win this, if not more of a chance.”

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“The guy’s won 21 majors, what is it, 22 majors? I’m losing track. It’s incredible. We can never write him off.” The 14-time French Open champion missed last year’s event because of a resurfaced foot injury. Whereas this year he will eye his fifth trophy with the risk of damaging his abdominal injury from the quarterfinals of Wimbledon even further.

Nadal’s first opponent

Rafael Nadal will lock horns with the Australian young blood Rinky Hijikata in the opening round of the Grand slam. The 21-year-old has mostly played ITF tours and will meet the Spaniard for the first time. Hijikata is holding the ranking of World No.198 and gave the most noteworthy run of the season in this month’s Los Cabos Open by making up to the last 16 of the tournament.

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He lost his quarterfinals seat to World No.1 Daniil Medvedev in straight sets. Speaking of The former World No.1, the ATP No.3 was near to a calendar Grand Slam this year. Though as the Spaniard is struggling with an injury, the Aussie might have some chances of winning the match on 31 August at Arthur Ashe Stadium.