‘I will have my chances’ – Rafael Nadal assures fans he can reach his peak again

Rafael Nadal is recovering from a long-standing foot injury, but is confident he can add to his 20 Slam titles upon returning to tennis.

The 35-year-old last played at the Citi Open in Washington DC back in August before calling time on his 2021 season.

Nadal is aiming to be rehabilitated in time to play at the Australian Open in January, what would be his 17th career appearance at the event.

The Spaniard spoke with former Formula One racing driver Nico Rosberg about mental obstacles in life and as a sportsperson.

“I think everybody has some problems,” Nadal explained to Rosberg. “And especially sports people who bring the mental and physical parts [of themselves] to the limit.

“When you get a bit older, the feelings are different in all terms. But at the same time, even today, I had a very tough period of time in terms of my foot injury.

“So I need to come back hopefully by the beginning of next year.”

Nadal will be hoping to add another Major title to his men’s all-time leading tally of 20, shared with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.

His last title came at Roland Garros in 2020. The Australian Open is the only Slam that Nadal has not won at least twice.

His lone triumph there came in 2009, defeating Federer in five sets in the final.

“Of course I’m going to have some doubts, but I know the process, I have been there plenty of times,” Nadal continued regarding his recovery.

“It’s true that every time as you get older it gets more difficult [to recover] but I am very excited by the process and by the things that I have to do to try to be back.

“So, even with doubts, I am confident that if I am able to play without much pain, I will have my chances.”

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