Sports
“Going to Keep Fighting”: Rafael Nadal Ready to Battle Against Next-Gens for More Grand Slams
Spanish World No.3 Rafael Nadal will play his last tournament at the Italian Open 2021 before the French Open. Despite failing in the previous two Masters 1000 events, he is optimistic about defending his title in Paris.
In 2021, the big three of tennis did not reach the final in any of the three Masters 1000 events. While it is strange for the fans, it is not surprising for the 20-time Grand Slam champion from Mallorca.
Instead, he insisted that the time is due for the new generation players to win at such events. The Masters 1000 winners of the year are Hubert Hurkacz – Miami Masters, Stefanos Tsitsipas – Monte-Carlo Masters, and Alexander Zverev – Madrid Masters.
“It is normal that after almost 20 years on the [ATP] tour, there is another generation that are winning tournaments. We have been achieving almost every single important event for the last 19 years,” Nadal said.
In defense, the 34-year-old explained that Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and he are missing more tournaments now. He added that they need to accept that nothing is forever.
Read More: “Can Still Go Very Far”: Dominic Thiem Optimistic About Roger Federer Winning His 21st Grand Slam
Rafael Nadal accepts next-generation challenge at French Open 2021
Rafael Nadal, 34, is a four-time consecutive and record 13-time winner at the Roland Garros. He is looking forward to adding one more glory to continue his love affair in Paris.
Thus, while the Spaniard accepted that the big three did not win any Masters yet, he also revealed that he would not stop. Moreover, he will aim to make the lives of new-generation players tough on French soil.
“Nothing strange. 100% ready to accept that. But I am going to keep fighting,” the Spaniard added. “That means that in three weeks, there is another Grand Slam that I like to play. I am going to fight to try to play well there.”
Nadal’s road at the Italian Open 2021
The record nine-time Italian Open champion will face 19-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner in his opening match. Although he is wary of his opponent’s improving game, he is thrilled to show his best in return.
Furthermore, Nadal can also meet his Madrid Open quarterfinals opponent and eventual winner Alexander Zverev in Rome. With a tough draw ahead in Italy, Rafa will aim at testing himself to the core. Only time will tell what all he can achieve this year.
Do you think Nadal can win the Italian Open 2021?
Also Read: “Have More Weapons”: Jannik Sinner Ready to Take Revenge on Rafael Nadal at Italian Open 2021
The post “Going to Keep Fighting”: Rafael Nadal Ready to Battle Against Next-Gens for More Grand Slams appeared first on EssentiallySports.
