via Reuters
Spain’s Rafael Nadal in action during his semi final match against Argentina’s Diego Schwartzman REUTERS/Charles Platiau
via Reuters
Spain’s Rafael Nadal in action during his semi final match against Argentina’s Diego Schwartzman REUTERS/Charles Platiau
Conversations about athletes and ranks are always intriguing because such topics divert only towards the best of the best. A similar case happened with World No. 3 Dominic Thiem when he was asked about his favorite athletes. In his list of the greats, ‘The King of Clay’ Rafael Nadal stood at number 4.
Both Thiem and Nadal have won a Grand Slam single’s title this year. While the 27 year old Austrian won his first major title at the US Open 2020, the Spaniard won his overall 20 major title and his 13 at the French Open in 2020.
via Reuters
Tennis – French Open – Galeries Lafayette Rooftop, Paris, France – October 12, 2020 Spain’s Rafael Nadal poses with the trophy after winning the French Open yesterday REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes
“This is a record for the tennis-eternity”: Thiem on Rafael Nadal’s 13 titles at the Roland Garros
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The pandemic outbreak subdued everything that took place in 2020, but it didn’t have any effect on the Spanish great. After his phenomenal win in the finals against World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, Nadal has invented a new level in the game of tennis.
Even though Rafael Nadal was the star of the show, Dominic Thiem also showed some real potential at the Garros. His quarterfinal exit against the Argentinian Diego Schwartzman was difficult to watch. They fought for five hours to reach a 7-6 (7-1), 5-7, 6-7 (6-8), 7-6 (7-5), 6-2 score.
The Austrian said, “His dominating game on clay and at the French Open say it all – this is surely a record for the tennis-eternity. He has constantly been developing his game,” about World No. 2 Rafael Nadal.
“I admired Rafael Nadal when I was a child”: Dominic Thiem
The Spanish tennis star is a by-product of discipline, determination, and perseverance. And when the world was in awe of the Swiss maestro Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal was accepted as his only vial counterpart. Their rivalry continues to be one of the greatest in the world of sports.
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via Getty
LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Rafael Nadal of Spain greets Roger Federer of Switzerland during a practice session during Middle Sunday of The Championships – Wimbledon 2019 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 07, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
His 86 career titles and humble bearings have inspired generations of people both in and outside of the tennis culture. The Austrian professional is one of the many.
“We get along well, I admired him when I was a child. He is a totally easy going guy, always friendly and helpful.”
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Rafael Nadal will next participate in the 2020 Rolex Paris Masters 1000 in France. He is the top seed as well as the favorite of the event; however, the tournament will be conducted behind closed doors. Fortunately, there is a lot of tennis left in him for the world to watch and learn.
Also Read: Does Rafael Nadal Have the Best Chance to Win Rolex Paris Masters Title in 2020?
