Rafael Nadal has dominated his preferred surface, red clay, more thoroughly than anyone had ever dreamed possible 20 years ago. In addition, the world No.1 has won 12 titles at what may well be the most physically demanding tournament in the world, Roland Garros. What is more, this record may be extended, perhaps in 2020.
In the 2019 Laver Cup, the Spaniard had been spotted with strapping on his left hand as he sat out of day one. But despite energy expended, Nadal’s coach Francis Roig confirmed that his star commitment to play next year.
“It was something such a big achievement. He played so many matches and everything went well luckily as his body held up. He is dealing with some left-hand pain, now he will take some time off as his injury sometimes forced him to hit the forehand in a different way during some matches.” Roig said.
“Those days he is getting some treatment, next month he will play an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi, then on December 28 we will travel to Australia.
“He always needs to improve, a bit on return games. The volleys too, and the forehand winner. It’s impossible to know but I think two, three more years. Now he is training less but on the court but his intensity is as high as ever.” Roig added.
Asked who’s a competitive player in next year, Roig said it’s difficult to predict. But he believes Stefanos Tsitsipas can do more alongside the others.
“It’s still difficult. Who improved the most tennis-wise this year was Stefanos Tsitsipas, so the Greek can do something big.” Roig said.
“Daniil Medvedev played very well but he may have a tougher year in 2020 because everyone thinks he can deliver an unbelievable level. I do not think on clay or grass.” he added.
