After an illustrious career winning 22 Grand Slam titles, finally, the age has taken a toll on Rafael Nadal. The 37-year-old has been battling with a hip injury that he sustained during the AO earlier this year. He had two surgeries meanwhile. Now, after a long wait of almost a year, his fans have finally seen a ray of hope after he announced making a comeback in 2024. Recently, the former coach of Serena Williams revealed the key for Rafael Nadal in his comeback. Let’s catch up more on this story.

Rick Macci who turned 68 today, has previously expressed his admiration for the ‘King of Clay’. Macci has played a pivotal role in building up Serena Williams’ career and now he heaps praise for the Spaniard’s enduring competitive nature.

Serena Williams’ former coach reveals the secret formula to glory for Rafael Nadal

Rick Macci expressed his doubt about Rafael Nadal being a contender for the Grand Slam titles next year. But he’s reluctant to erase him out of the frame. Here’s what he disclosed recently about Rafa through his tweet. ‘If he can stay healthy and can get a lot of matches under his Belt his presence by Every opponent 100% will be Felt,‘ Rick Macci. The USPTA Hall of Famer has also emphasized earlier that with age it’s obvious to lose a bit of mobility. 

He added this can be really vulnerable to any player. But if the former number 1, can somehow keep himself fit for the rest of the season, then he’ll surely be again become a force to reckon with.

Rafa’s dedication and accomplishment in the game has been widely admired by pundits around the world. A few days ago the former coach of Serena Williams, issued a warning to the tennis world over underestimating Nadal. He believes even though there has been a significant gap since he last appeared on the court. But Rafael Nadal’s competitive spirit may push him further than what others could think of.

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Rafael Nadal had earlier confirmed his participation at the Brisbane International. The qualifying round of the ATP 250 event is scheduled to take place on December 29-30. The tournament will officially begin on December 31, 2023, and will be held till January 7, 2024. This tournament will serve as a good preparatory camp for Rafa ahead of the mega event in Melbourne Park. Every time he steps onto the court, millions of expectations get crept on his shoulders. Can he live up to the expectations this time?

Rafael Nadal looks to enjoy his game in the ‘Land Down Under’

The two-time AO winner has already revealed the most difficult thing for him to control next year would be his expectations. Rafa is currently placed at 664 in the men’s singles ranking. Therefore, he’s ineligible to enter the main draw of a major event or even its qualifications. So, the only way out for the Spanish legend is either a wildcard entry or his protected ranking slot.

Several reports suggest the 22 Grand Slam title holder has chosen his Protected Ranking to enter the first Grand Slam event of 2024. According to the rules set by the ATP, a player who’s making a comeback from a prolonged injury break can use a protected ranking in their first twelve singles or doubles tournaments.

However, Nadal would remain unseeded. Even though, it’s time for fans to enjoy the moment. But there is always a -Can Rafael Nadal manage to clinch his 23rd Grand Slam next year? Share your thoughts in the comment box.

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