‘Assassin on the Crucial Points’ – Carlos Moya Details What Separates Rafael Nadal From Other Athletes

During the last two decades, we have seen the likes of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic dominate men’s tennis. Often termed as ‘The Big Three’ in tennis, the trio has been the center of the GOAT debate. However, Nadal’s coach, Carlos Moya, has detailed what separates the Spaniard from the rest.

The three have had contrasting 2022 seasons. While Federer hasn’t played for over a year due to knee injuries, Djokovic has had controversies owing to his vaccination status. Meanwhile, Nadal has raced ahead of the two as far as the Grand Slam titles are concerned. Earlier this year, he lifted the Australian Open and the French Open trophies to take his major tally to 22 titles.

Carlos Moya talks about the impeccable quality of Rafael Nadal

In Nadal’s autobiography, Rafa: My Story, the 1998 French Open champion has opened up about the special quality of Nadal. He said, “It’s Rafa’s head that distinguishes him from the rest. That comes through on court, not just for his rival but also for people watching on TV. It’s invisible, but you feel it. His backhand, his forehand: others have that.”

Further, he added, “Of course he is talented. I think he doesn’t realize himself how much because he has a tendency to underestimate himself. But in terms of mentality, he is out of this world. I’ve known many top athletes, not just in tennis, and nobody has what he has-with the exception maybe of Tiger Woods or Michael Jordan.”

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Talking about his winning attitude, Moya said, “He is an assassin on the crucial points; his concentration is absolute, and he has something I never had, an ambition without limits.”

Nadal once made an appearance in Federer’s box

During the 2004 Indian Wells tournament, Nadal and Tommy Robredo defeated Federer and Yves Allegro in the second round of the men’s doubles. Subsequently, Nadal and Federer had a friendly chat in the locker room. During their interaction, the Swiss maestro invited Nadal to watch his quarterfinal match against Juan Ignacio Chela.

Nadal, who was just 17 back then, happily accepted Federer’s invitation. He joined Mirka in Federer’s box. The Swiss maestro went on to win the match in straight sets. While Nadal lost in the third round of that tournament in singles, Federer went on to win the title, defeating Tim Henman in the summit clash.

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