After his latest injury, doubles specialist Horacio Zeballos thinks Rafael Nadal may retire because to emotional concerns rather than physical ones.
The former World No. 1 has battled after his abdominal tear at Wimbledon last year. Since then, Nadal is 5-8, including three losses in four matches this year, prompting retirement speculation.
The 36-year-old lost his Australian Open title defence last month. He lost to Mackenzie McDonald in straight sets in the second round with a hip injury and will miss 6-8 weeks. He’s entered in Indian Wells next month, but it may be too soon.
Rafael Nadal said:
“I considered stopping all the time but didn’t consult the physiotherapist. Know myself. I tried to play without increasing damage. Nope.”
In an interview with CLAY, Zeballos suggested that Nadal’s injuries may be mental as he nears retirement.
“If it’s the end, it’s mental. He has often surprised us with his recovery from injuries, making it hard to say. Tennis lover, not logic. I hope he plays this year because he’s great “he said
Zeballos hasn’t ruled out the Spaniard returning from injury again.
“Like Federer and Djokovic, Nadal has demonstrated he can stop and come back with inhuman achievements. After getting hurt, he won additional Grand Slams. Age does not make things the same as 10 years before. He amazes us every time he returns to his top form. “Hope he comes back strong,” he added.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner started a season with consecutive losses for the first time.
“I remember beating him in a final” Horacio Zeballos on Nadal In 2013 Vina del Mar, Zeballos defeated the Spaniard.
In 2013 Vina del Mar, Zeballos defeated the Spaniard.
Rafael Nadal is rightfully called the clay king. He won 63 red dirt titles, including 14 at Roland Garros, with a 474-45 record.
At 2013 Vina de Mar, Zeballos defeated his fellow left-hander. The Argentine recalled the match with pride.
“I defeated him! Naturally. I wanted to be the last to defeat him. To keep the record one-to-one, I didn’t play me again. I’ll never forget my pride. I still remember that after ten years. Perfectly. Clear memories, “Zeballos.
Nadal leads Zeballos 2-1.
