Rafael Nadal’s dream of bringing the Wimbledon trophy back to Mallorca 12 years after the last time (2010 three-set win over Berdych) remains unabated. The Manacor bull has so far beaten Cerúndolo, Berankis, Sonego and Van De Zandschulp in London, losing a set in both the first and second heats.
During yesterday’s press conference, Rafael Nadal was asked about the differences between playing indoors and outdoors at Wimbledon. Although the changes seem minimal, they should not be underestimated: “This year I have played little time on the indoor court, so it is difficult to assess,” said the 22-time Grand Slam winner after the match.
“The other time it was with Novak, a few years ago, and it was a great match (the Serb won in the fifth set after a super balanced match). Indoors I played at a very good level. With the roof there is a little more humidity.
I found the court to be a bit more slippery. At least, that’s what it seemed to me the other day when I played.” Nadal also had the opportunity to see the performance of his number one rival in this Grand Slam, Djokovic.
“I also watched Novak when they closed the roof for the light and I saw him slip a couple of times. That’s what happens when it closes,” explained the Spaniard. Rafael Nadal, in the next round of the quarterfinals, will have to face the American Taylor Fritz, who is in great shape since he has not lost a single set at Wimbledon so far and has just won the 250 of Eastbourne.
The Spaniard will try to avenge the defeat suffered in the Indian Wells final at the hands of Fritz, in a match in which he was severely affected by a rib injury. Nadal, in case of success against the American, would enter the penultimate act of the third Major of the season for the eighth time.
Nadal is a legend
Rafael Nadal hasn’t played competitively on grass since a defeat to Roger Federer in the 2019 Wimbledon semifinals. “I am playing well, enjoying myself a lot. The level of tennis, if we remove the problems, is magnificent.
The abdominal problem is not something that comes from playing on grass. It can happen on any surface,” Nadal said. Both players hit 56 winners apiece, but Nadal lost his serve eight times and Fritz seven during the contest.
“I won because I played well from the back of the court. Of course, I didn’t win on my serve. I was able to improve and adapt to the conditions that my body presents to remain competitive. I knew how to improve my tennis depending on the needs. It’s something I’m happy with,” he added.
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