"I'm going to need my best version" - Nadal ahead of Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal is looking to win his 13th Roland Garros title in the coming fortnight but heading into it the Spaniard is aware that it won't be easy.

Rafael Nadal in his career has totalled 20 Grand Slam titles out of which 12 were won in Paris. Now ahead of the Roland Garros he is looking to make it 13 and 21 respectively but it won't be easy and he is aware of that. Speaking about his play on clay he said:

“I always have been beatable on clay. [Novak] beat me a lot of times. But at the same time [it] is true that I had a lot of success on this surface. [The] situation is special. Conditions here probably are the most difficult conditions for me ever, for so many different [reasons]. The ball is completely different. The ball is super slow, heavy. It's very cold. Slow conditions."

It's true that the conditions won't be similar to what many players are used to but they will be the same for everyone. When asked about his preparations the Spaniard said:

“Of course, the preparation has been less than usual. But you know what, I am here to fight and to play with the highest intensity possible, to practise with the right attitude, to give [myself] a chance. That's the main goal for me. Be competitive on Monday, and let's try. Just day-by-day. I know this place very well. It is about being patient, being positive, just trying to find the positive vibes every single day.”

Ultimately he concluded the interview by saying:

“I am just relaxed knowing that it's a very special year. I am here just to give myself a chance to enjoy another Roland Garros and, of course, to try my best to be competitive and fight for the final goal.”