Former world number one Mats Wilander believes Rafael Nadal inspires more tennis than Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
"For me, Nadal and his story of overcoming adversity inspires young people more than anyone else, including Federer and Djokovic," Wilander said in a commentary for Eurosport on January 11. According to the owner of seven Grand Slam titles, Nadal's injury-plagued career provides motivation and valuable lessons for tennis lovers.
Nadal celebrates his victory in the second round of the Brisbane International, Australia last week. Photo: Reuters
Wilander appreciates Nadal's way of handling adversity. "People like Alcaraz and Tsitsipas have certainly learned a lot from Nadal," he said. "He's the type of player who gives his all, sometimes too much, for every point, every shot. Even though it takes a toll on Nadal's physique, that's why we watch the top players play."
According to Wilander, Nadal is unlikely to return to Australia after withdrawing from the Grand Slam earlier this year. The Spaniard suffered a minor injury while playing at the Brisbane International last week. He did not want to risk playing after taking nearly a year off to undergo surgery and recover from a hip injury.
"Nadal's absence is bad news for all of us," Wilander added. "I watched three of his matches and he looked fine. However, Nadal's injuries are always different from other players. Most of his muscles have been suffering for many years. I feel it's unfair for Nadal to have one injury after another."
Nadal and Federer are both absent for the first time in 25 years, leaving only Novak Djokovic of the "Big 3" to compete at this year's Australian Open. The Serbian also arrived in Melbourne in less than ideal condition due to a minor wrist injury.
Nadal is expected to retire this year after more than two decades of fighting, winning 22 Grand Slams, holding the number one position in the world for 209 weeks, being the best player on the ATP Tour for 5 times, and countless other big and small titles. The "King of Clay" will focus on Roland Garros and the Paris Olympics this summer. He holds the record of 14 Roland Garros wins and also has enough Olympic singles and doubles gold medals.
"It's hard to find someone as passionate, persistent and determined as Nadal," Wilander said.
Vy Anh
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