In a recent interview, Fabio Fognini talked about the 2015 US Open third round encounter, where he beat Rafael Nadal, who was up by two sets and had breakpoints in both the third and the fourth sets. Rafael Nadal overcame a similar fate in the final of the Australian Open 2022, and Fognini was all praise for his Laver Cup teammate.

In the interview, he sang praises of the World No. 5, recognising what an ‘incredible fighter’ he is, and how his achievements are some that only the “greatest champions can accomplish.”

Fabio Fognini thinks Rafa’s 21st Grand Slam will motivate Novak Djokovic further

When asked what Novak Djokovic might be feeling about Rafael Nadal overtaking him in the Grand Slam tally, Fognini said that this feat by Nadal must be motivating for the World No. 1. He said that the Serb is incredibly competitive and Rafa’s 21st must be like a challenge for him to overcome.

“As I know him, I think he has blood boiling in his veins. On the one hand, he will be almost happy, because these are the challenges that motivate him. He must have thought, ‘Great, you won … See you again in Paris.’ He is very competitive, he has shown it over the years. But here, if Rafa wants to, he will also win Paris and score 22,” Fognini said.

(Quotes have been translated using Google Translate)

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Rafael Nadal convinced Fognini to get treatment for his foot

In the interview, Fabio Fognini also revealed that talking to Rafael Nadal and considering his opinion was monumental in him getting surgeries on his ankle. Having a similar style of play, Nadal’s experience with injuries and the way he returns from them inspired Fognini.

“We are not hitters, our game is set on running and if you are not well, you make a lot of effort. For a champion like him on the one hand it is easy, because mentally he is really from another planet,” he said.

Do you think Novak will match Rafa’s tally in France or will the King of Clay race to 22 major titles?

Watch this story: 5 Rafael Nadal Shots That Made Commentators Go Wild at Australian Open 2022