Rafael Nadal practices on clay with coach Carlos Moya

World no. 3 Rafael Nadal has been preparing for his favorite clay swing, working at his Academy in Manacor with the coach Carlos Moya by his side.

The 20-time Major champion will compete at Monte Carlo Masters between April 12-18, staying away from the court since that heavy Australian Open loss to Stefanos Tsitsipas. Rafa is shaping his game for his beloved clay, planning to compete in Monte Carlo and Barcelona in April and gather a boost ahead of Madrid, Rome and Roland Garros.

Rafa played only two events on clay in 2020 due to the coronavirus, losing in the Rome quarter-final before claiming the 13th Roland Garros crown in October without losing a set. In 2019, the king of clay suffered unexpected losses in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid before the title clash, improving his game in Rome and Paris to claim two notable titles and add 3000 points to his tally, the crucial ones in his battle with Novak Djokovic for the year-end no. 1 honor.

Nadal made a slow start of the season due to a back injury suffered in Adelaide in January, skipping the ATP Cup and entering the Australian Open with dark clouds above his head. The great champion played well in Melbourne, winning the opening four encounters in straight sets and forging two sets to love advantage against Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarters.

The Greek bounced back in set number three and toppled a great rival in five thrilling sets to leave Nadal empty-handed. Rafa skipped Miami and will play his second tournament of the season at his favorite Monte Carlo Masters, where he claimed 11 titles since 2005.