Rafael Nadal has proven good progress in training since recovering from a hip damage but his coach Carlos Moya nonetheless worries about how the previous world No 1’s physique will maintain up towards the rigours of Grand Slam tennis.
The 37-year-old suffered a muscle situation at Melbourne Park in January that worn out his season but will return at Brisbane earlier than taking part in within the January 14-28 Australian Open the place he gained two of his 22 Grand Slam titles.
The Brisbane International is stay on Sky Sports.
The Spaniard, who had surgical procedure in June, has mentioned 2024 could possibly be his closing 12 months on tour and has stepped up training in current months to make a comeback and guarantee he finishes his profession on court docket.
“Rafa’s going to go from training, which he’s doing very well, to competing. It’s impossible to have the same conditions in training as in a match,” Moya mentioned in an interview with the ATP Tour.
“Playing the most effective of 5 units, win, relaxation, return to court docket two days later… That’s the doubt I’ve proper now, particularly for a Grand Slam. But now we have time. If the Australian Open began tomorrow, it could be an actual worry.
“There’s still a month left, a tournament before in Brisbane, demanding training … I think all of this will put him in a position to be able to endure it. But now that’s my fear.”
Tim Henman, Laura Robson and Katie Boulter consider the brand new Sky Sports five-year partnerships with the ATP and WTA to indicate all-year-round tennis will assist develop the game within the UK
Nadal dropped out of the highest 100 for the primary time in 20 years earlier this season and has slipped to quantity 668 but is eligible for a protected rating having been injured and never competing for no less than six months.
However, Moya mentioned Nadal wouldn’t be capable to keep away from robust opponents within the early rounds and would wish beneficial attracts to construct up his rhythm.
“I’ve never been of the thought that Rafa needs rhythm because he’s too good for that,” Moya mentioned. “But now the situation is different.”
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Watch Rafa Nadal’s return to tennis stay on Sky Sports within the Brisbane International within the first week of January.
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