Rafael Nadal’s uncle raises new French Open concerns after Spaniard’s emotional return
Rafael Nadal’s uncle Toni has sparked fresh concerns over the upcoming French Open even after the former world No. 1 travelled to Paris to train.
The 14-time champion made an emotional return to Court Philippe-Chatrier for the first time in two years as he practiced on Tuesday. But his uncle believes that there is still a chance that he won’t play.
Nadal is preparing for what will likely be his final French Open. The Spaniard has an incredible record on the Parisian clay courts, lifting the trophy 14 times and suffering just three defeats.
He missed the tournament last year through injury and fans are hoping to see him at his hunting ground one last time.
But his decision to travel to Paris and start practising on-site seemed promising. However, his uncle and former coach is still hesitant about Nadal’s chances of competing.
“He is not going to drag himself down, he remains confident because of his mentality and the way he is. He will not go to Roland Garros to lose in the second round, [he will go] only if he believes he can win the tournament,” Toni said.
