Nadal and Thiem Will Not Be Affected at Australian Open 2021 Without Their Head Coach, Claims Federer’s Ex Coach
Follow Us
Both Rafael Nadal and Dominic Thiem will travel without their main coach for the upcoming Australian Open 2021. Considering this, Paul Annacone, former coach of Roger Federer, evaluated the situation of the World No. 2 and No. 3.
It was Rafa’s coach who first broke out the news that he wouldn’t be going to Australia. Due to the recent spike of coronavirus cases in Spain, Carlos Moya decided to stay with his family. However, he mentioned that he will be following up with the team from home.
Soon after, Thiem’s coach Nicolas Massu tested positive for the virus in Chile. As a result, he cannot travel to Adelaide with the Austrian star.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Even though this is a major setback for both of them, they both have trustworthy second coaches. The Spaniard has Francisco Roig, with who he has worked since 2005, before his first Grand Slam.
On the other hand, Thiem will have his father, Wolfgang Thiem, by his side. Notably, Wolfgang is a professional coach and the captain of Team Austria for the ATP Cup 2021.
Andy Murray Suffers Huge Blow Ahead of Australian Open 2021
Roger Federer’s former coach on Rafael Nadal and Dominic Thiem at Australian Open 2021
Paul Annacone spoke about how Carlos did not travel last year either. Additionally, he mentioned that this wouldn’t affect the 20 majors champion much.
“That’s why he has Francisco Roig with him for such a long time,” Paul said. “Sometimes both coaches go, other times not.”
Trending
‘RIP’ – Heartbroken Brother of John McEnroe Mourns ESPN Legend’s Tragic Death Who Last Tweeted About Coco Gauff
April 21, 2024 02:43 PM EDT
Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian Gushes Over Her Pink Attire as Part of Nike’s Latest Endeavor
April 23, 2024 05:55 PM EDT
Darwin Blanch: How Father’s Relentless Efforts for His Brother Ended up Becoming a Boon for Rafael Nadal’s Opponent
April 24, 2024 06:52 PM EDT
Where Is Venus and Serena Williams’ Father ‘King’ Richard Now? Everything to Know about His Whereabouts
April 25, 2024 11:01 AM EDT
Do Darwin Blanch’s Siblings Play Tennis? Everything to Know About the Young American’s Power-Packed Family
April 25, 2024 01:54 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest Tennis stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
On Thiem’s side, Annacone concluded that the Chilean coach has been instrumental in the Austrian’s development. Therefore, the reigning US Open champion might miss on that support. “These guys have done such great work together,” he said. “I mean, Nicolas Massu is a catalyst to a big step into the next level for Dominic Thiem.”
The Demon got himself another trophy. 🏆@Steve_Weissman, @paul_annacone, and @jon_wertheim talk @alexdeminaur's 4th ATP title, and whose coaches won't be in Australia → https://t.co/tPoe44TDv0#TCLive pic.twitter.com/PCk48B2AE3
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) January 13, 2021
However, in the end, Paul did mention that the 27-year-old’s father is an experienced coach. Given that, Massu’s absence won’t pose too much of a challenge.
Novak Djokovic Receives Special Wishes from Fans Going Into Australian Open 2021
The biggest challenge for Nadal, Thiem in Australia is Novak Djokovic
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The top 3 ATP players will begin their 2021 together in Adelaide at an exhibition match. Then they will move to Melbourne Park for the ATP Cup and next to the Australian Open.
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic is the defending champion of both tournaments. He will look to repeat the same this year as well.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Do you think Nadal and Thiem can get past Djokovic in Australia?
Is Australian Open 2021 Risking Everyone After Allowing Tennys Sandgren To Participate?