There are some growing concerns about mental health these days, with a number of athletes also opening up about the same. Even in the tennis community, many prominent figures like Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka have previously spoken candidly about facing such issues, which also forced them into a hiatus. In light of the growing health concerns, the role of a mental health coach is regarded as important in modern tennis.

While many in the tennis community have advocated the idea, Rafael Nadal‘s uncle Toni recently issued some blunt comments against it. The mental toughness of the younger generation of players was called into question by the Spanish tennis coach. However, the 62-year-old coach’s bold revelations didn’t sit well with the fans, as he got slammed by them on social media.

Rafael Nadal’s uncle takes flak for his recent comments about mental health coaches

In an interview with the Majorca Bulletin, the 62-year-old opened up about being worried about the next generation of players on the tennis circuit. According to the Spaniard, younger players are not able to realize their full potential as there is an abundance of information in this modern sport that can be quite “confusing”.

Furthermore, Toni Nadal claimed that the reason the younger generation on the tour becomes dissatisfied and is unable to handle pressure and disappointment on their own is because of their respective mental health coaches. In the process, the Spanish coach reminded them of his nephew, Rafael Nadal, who never had a mental health coach or a nutritionist during his competitive tennis journey.

While comparing modern players to the ATP legend, Toni has put a big question mark on their mental toughness. The tennis coach’s rant directed at the younger generation, however, has triggered a flurry of fans on Twitter. One fan said, “…and yet all these types of folks are employed at Rafael Nadals tennis academy…training the next generation of tennis players”

Another fan brutally slammed him as she brought to light his coaching split with his own nephew, Rafael Nadal.

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The user commented, “His own nephew dumped him. Read Rafa’s book about his dear to.”

The Canadian tennis star, Felix Auger Aliassime, who is currently under the tutelage of the Spanish coach, has been struggling with his poor on-court performances this season. Notably, a fan said, “So, what is happening with Felix Augier ?”

Similarly, another fan tweeted, “Felix would like a refund 😳”

Meanwhile, a user called Toni Nadal an “old and tired” coach.