Rafa readying himself for Montreal return

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 11:38

Rafael Nadal. Remember him? Just a couple of days after witnessing Roger Federer reclaim both the Wimbledon title and the world No.1 spot from him, the Spaniards spokesman reveals his plans to return to action in just a months time.

The world No.2 has reportedly not picked up a racket since his pre-Wimbledon exhibition match against Stanislas Wawrinka, but has been focusing purely on fitness and rehabilitating his knees.

“Rafa was not ready for Wimbledon either physically or mentally, especially mentally”

And despite reports to the contrary, Nadals recovery is on schedule. He expects to be back on the practice courts in the next few weeks in preparation for the US Open, which starts on August 31, and has entered the Rogers Cup Masters 1000 event in Montreal, which may very well mark his competitive return.

Perez Barbadillo, Nadals spokesman, said yesterday: The plan is still very much that he plays in the Montreal Masters beginning on August 10. He is entered into it and that is what will happen if things go as we think they will.

Rafa is in Manacor alongside his physiotherapist and his physical trainer, working intensely on his recovery. That recovery was pushed to try to make it to Wimbledon, but Rafa was not ready for it either physically or mentally, especially mentally.

“He is not playing tennis. He only touched his racket the week before Wimbledon, for training and exhibition games.

“There seem to be experts giving opinions about Rafas knee from a long distance when they have no details and have no knowledge of his condition, Barbadillo added. He has his own specialists, and they are the only ones who are qualified to give proper opinions. It is disrespectful to Rafa and his doctors for those who have not examined him to be saying how he is.

Asked if Nadal could return sooner, he answered: You never know with this guy.

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