Rafael Nadal is a resilient player, and this is something we have seen him prove repeatedly. He does not vanquish or give up on the court even if he is suffering. The Spanish legend’s quarterfinal match against his arch-rival Novak Djokovic is scheduled to be a night match at the Roland Garros.

Toni Nadal, uncle, and ex-coach of Rafael Nadal, echoed the feelings of his nephew when asked about his take on the scheduling of arguably the biggest match of this year’s Grand Slam in Paris.

Toni Nadal questions the scheduling of the clash between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic

Toni expressed his discontent with the schedule during his interview with Aitor Gómez of Marca. He said, “The televisions and platforms wanted this game at night and it is what it is. You don’t have to think about it anymore, play and see if you are lucky. Whoever pays rules and they wanted this night game. A shame for Rafa,” (Google Translate).

Toni Nadal went ahead and explained the difference between playing night and day games, elaborating the technicalities of the sport on the clay court. He stated, “Playing changes day or night. Rafa’s shot is worse and Djokovic’s safer. During the day it’s hot, and the ball bounces sharply and it’s more difficult for Djokovic to control the ball. Playing during the day is the closest thing to a final.”

Rafael Nadal had indicated that this might be his last appearance in Roland Garros. On that, his uncle said, “I am confident that this will not be Rafa Nadal’s last Roland Garros.”

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He showed hope and faith in his former mentee. Toni Nadal stated, “When you are in these tournaments, you go to the limit and Rafa is going to do it again. Every year it is more difficult, but I think there is time to recover.” 

A much-anticipated face-off at the French Open 2022

The anticipation around the legendary face-off between the King of Clay, Rafael Nadal, and world no. 1, Novak Djokovic, is high. The Head to Head series of the two players at the moment is in favor of the Serbian, with a ratio of 30-28. Though Rafa is not very keen on playing at night, we cannot deny that he is still best known for his dominance on the clay court.

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Who do you think will win the quarter-finals at the French Open 2022? Let us know in the comments below.