In a recent interview with El Objective de La Sexta, Rafael Nadal showered praise on his long-time rival Novak Djokovic, hailing him as the best player in the history of tennis. Reflecting on Djokovic’s remarkable career achievements, including his 24 Grand Slam titles, Nadal acknowledged the Serbian’s dominance on the court.
Despite Djokovic’s on-court success, Nadal also addressed the challenges the world No. 1 faces in terms of public perception. While acknowledging moments of frustration, such as racket-breaking incidents, Nadal emphasized Djokovic’s resilience and his ability to bounce back, showcasing his unwavering dedication to the game.
At 37, Nadal has been contending with injuries, having missed a significant portion of the 2023 season and recently withdrawing from the Qatar Open due to a torn muscle. Despite these setbacks, Nadal remains hopeful about his return to competitive tennis, expressing his desire to compete in the upcoming French Open and the Olympics.
In addition to discussing his own career, Nadal also praised his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz, highlighting the young player’s exceptional talent and predicting a bright future for him in the sport. Nadal sees Alcaraz as a complete player without the weaknesses he faced at a similar age, indicating the potential for an incredible career ahead.
Beyond his personal endeavors, Nadal shared his involvement with Saudi Arabia’s Tennis Federation, where he was appointed as an ambassador in January. While acknowledging the financial aspect of the partnership, Nadal emphasized his commitment to growing the sport and inspiring future generations of tennis players. Plans for a Rafa Nadal Academy in the country underscore his dedication to fostering tennis development on a global scale.
As Nadal’s illustrious career continues to unfold, his reflections on past achievements and aspirations for the future highlight his enduring passion for the sport and his desire to leave a lasting impact both on and off the court.