“Very Humble and Calm”: Next-Gen Star Reveals How Rafael Nadal Motivated Him

The 18-year-old Lorenzo Musetti became a sensation after his exceptional performance at the Italian Open 2020. The young Italian lad defeated the three-time Grand Slam winner Stanislas Wawrinka and former World No. 5 Kei Nishikori to reach the Round of 16-stage of the tournament. It was his incessant practice with World No. 2 Rafael Nadal that did wonders.

Musetti recently got a chance to practice with the 19-time Grand Slam Winner. “The compliments of Nadal, who was very humble and calm in giving them, made me very happy,” said the 18-year-old prodigy.

Nadal clearly appreciated Musetti’s gameplay. Who could have understood him better than Nadal, who himself lifted a Grand Slam in his teenage years! However, at the round of 16-stage of the Italian Open 2020, Dominik Koepfer had the last laugh over Lorenzo Musetti. The Italian suffered a humiliating defeat as he lost in straight sets 4-6 and 0-6.

Read More: Why is it difficult for Nadal to win the Italian Open 2020?

‘All these attentions motivate me’- Lorenzo Musetti on Rafael Nadal

The 18-year-old won the Australian Open boys singles titles in 2019. He has already caught the attention of the world. He even got a chance to train with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic’s team in Australia.

“While with Djokovic I had already had the opportunity to play in training in Melbourne and get to know his team; today I was pleased to have him in the stands even if he didn’t see a good match. All these attentions do not make me go crazy, on the contrary, they motivate me,“ said the enthusiastic Musetti.

(Quotes have been translated)

Before the Italian Open 2020 began, the Italian was at the 249th position in the ATP rankings. After the tournament ended, his ranking has jumped to 180th. He is on his way to play at the ATP Forli Challenger this week.

The youngster undoubtedly has a bright future. He just needs to adapt to different conditions. His regular training sessions with some of the tennis legends reflect his eagerness to learn more and more, and fans have started looking for a great player in him.

Also Read: Novak Djokovic is ready to take on Rafael Nadal at the French open 2020