Reuters
Spain’s Rafael Nadal in action during his semi-final match against Russia’s Daniil Medvedev Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs
Reuters
Spain’s Rafael Nadal in action during his semi-final match against Russia’s Daniil Medvedev Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs
Ever since Rafael Nadal first established himself, the World No. 2 has been taking the world by storm with his breathtaking tennis. Certain statistics in the game truly belong to the great Spaniard. His performances on clay courts have been regarded as monumental. To win a particular tournament 13 times sounds unimaginable.
Looking back on the 2020 season Rafa had, he added another French Open trophy in his cabinet. Earlier this year, he achieved a great feat, winning his 1000th match on tour during the Paris Masters. However, if there were any regrets this season for him, it was during the season-ending ATP Finals.
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Tennis – ATP Finals – The O2, London, Britain – November 21, 2020 Russia’s Daniil Medvedev with Spain’s Rafael Nadal after winning their semi-final match REUTERS/Toby Melville
Moya admits ATP Finals loss hurt Rafael Nadal
During the early stages of the ATP Tour Finals, Rafa lost to Dominic Thiem. It was one of the best matches of this season. He then lost to the Russian Daniil Medvedev in an epic semi-final battle. Recently, Rafa’s coach Carlos Moya voiced his opinions on his chances at the event. He felt that loss did take a toll on Nadal.
Speaking on the Spaniard’s performance in London, Moya said, “Losing at the Australian Open against Dominic Thiem in the quarterfinals did not affect him much. On the other hand, this was not really the case following his defeat in the half to Daniil Medvedev, it was difficult to accept.
“Rafa felt good during this master’s and he finally never felt so close to winning. It was hard for him to digest this elimination.”
(Quotes have been translated via Google)
Reflecting back on Nadal’s career, besides his 13 Roland Garros titles, Rafa has won 36 titles on clay, comprising tournaments played at Monte Carlo (11 times), Rome (9 times), Madrid (5 times), and Barcelona (11 times). The ‘King of Clay’ has won this tag for some reason. Having said that, Nadal has also won 7 more majors which include 4 at the US Open, 2 at Wimbledon, and 1 at the Australian Open.
Nadal will be leaving for Melbourne at the beginning of the new year. Players need to undergo a 14-day quarantine period according to the protocol issued. We look forward to seeing the 2009 Australian Open champion on the courts at Melbourne Park.
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