Rafael Nadal will only play French Open 'if he thinks he can get to the end' says Ivan Ljubicic in comparison to Roger Federer
ATP
Ivan
Ljubicic, the former coach of Roger Federer, opined that Rafael Nadal will play
in the French Open if he believes he can reach the final, comparing his
competitive spirit to Roger Federer's. The Spaniard was eliminated in the round
of 16 at the Madrid Open with three victories under his belt, although he
acknowledged that his participation in the Roland Garros is not certain.
The
22-times Grand Slam champion has participated in three events in 2024, with
this being the second in the clay swing after the Barcelona Open. In Madrid, he
secured victories over Darwin Blanch, Alex De Minaur, and Pedro Cachin, but was
defeated by the Czech player Jiri Lehecka in what was probably his last match
as a professional in Spain.
Uncertainty surrounding participation in the French Open
The former
world No. 1 will turn 38 in June and is likely playing his last season as a
professional, as he has indicated several times. Nevertheless, Nadal's
participation in the French Open remains uncertain, as he himself commented:
“The world does not end with Roland Garros. There are the Olympic Games ahead
and different formats that make me excited,” said the Mallorcan in his
pre-tournament press conference in Madrid.
“I’m going
to do it, things that I have to do to be able to play Paris. And if it is
possible, it is possible and if not, I will not go to Paris if I [do not] feel
qualified enough to compete.”
Regarding
Nadal's mindset about the French Open, Ivan Ljubicic stated in the Italian
newspaper La Stampa: “We’ve seen him for 20 years. We know his champion
mentality. Like Federer at Wimbledon, in Paris he will only play if he thinks
he can get to the end, not to make an appearance,” said the 10-time ATP title
winner.
Roger Federer played his last professional match alongside Nadal in the doubles of the Laver Cup in September 2022.
“If he says
that, it means he’s not in a good condition. He knows very well what he needs,
let’s see if he will find the right sensations in the remaining weeks.”
Additionally,
Ljubicic highlighted the possibility of Nadal following in Federer's footsteps
and retiring at the Laver Cup: “It’s possible, not probable,” Ljubicic
assessed. “That he agreed to play it is positive, he is looking ahead. But he
certainly won’t play for another ten years,” he added.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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