Rafa Nadal’s French Open Hopes in Doubt as Physical Condition Lags

Rafa Nadal has cast doubts over his French Open prospects after admitting that his physical condition will need to improve if he’s to have a shot at a record-extending 15th Roland Garros title. The Spanish tennis legend has been struggling to regain his form after making his comeback from injury at the Barcelona Open, where he suffered a second-round defeat to Alex de Minaur, the first Australian to defeat Nadal on clay.

The injury-plagued Nadal missed most of last year with a hip injury and appeared rusty in his first tournament since January. Now, he is ramping up his preparations for the French Open at the Madrid Open clay court tournament. Despite facing 16-year-old American wildcard Darwin Blanch in the first round, Nadal expressed uncertainty about his ability to compete at his best in Paris.

“If I was in Paris today, I wouldn’t go out to play,” Nadal told reporters at the Madrid Open. “I don’t think I’ll be able to play at 100 per cent, but it’s important to be able to play for the last time in Madrid.”

Nadal’s potential clash with de Minaur in the second round of the Madrid Open adds another layer of intrigue to his comeback journey. The Aussie previously defeated Nadal in Barcelona and will be looking to repeat that feat on clay once again.

As Nadal navigates his way through the Madrid Open and prepares for the French Open, the tennis world is watching closely to see if the 37-year-old can overcome his physical challenges and make a strong showing at Roland Garros. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his condition, Nadal remains determined to give his all on the court and push himself to compete at the highest level possible.