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Rafa Nadal French Open practise 2022

“Impossible” to think Nadal isn’t the French Open favourite believes legend


Rafa Nadal would only not be the favourite for a 14th French open title if he was injured says one of all time greats of the game

Rafa Nadal is the favourite to win the men’s singles at this year’s Roland Garros Slam according to John McEnroe. But there is an asterisk according to the outspoken American commentator because we aren’t sure if Rafa is 100% fit and he did lose last year in that classic semi final with Novak Djokovic.

McEnroe was speaking in his role as commentator for Eurosport when he said,

“Well, the only reason that [Rafael Nadal not being the favourite] would be true is because he seems to have some type of injury.

“But obviously, [with] the way he’s played at Roland-Garros, it would be pretty impossible to think that he wouldn’t be the favourite, [especially] when you’ve won it 13 times.

“He did lose last year, and [Carlos] Alcaraz looks incredible. Rafa looked like he was injured in Rome, so it’s hard to say.

“But you know, I don’t think it matters, ultimately. What matters is how healthy he is: that is what matters.”

Nadal kicks off his attempt to win a record breaking 14th singles title at the French Open today where he will play Australian Jordan Thompson before facing a tough task this year with a potential match up against arch rival Novak Djokovic in the quarter final then the young spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the semi finals.

Watch every match from Roland-Garros live and exclusive on discovery+ and Eurosport

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.