“I Also Suffer”: Rafael Nadal Emphasizes the Importance of Mental Strength in Tennis

Rafael Nadal hasn’t been at his best on the ATP tour in the 2021 season. Due to his foot injury, the 20-time Grand Slam champion withdrew from this year’s Wimbledon and US Open. However, the Spaniard is optimistic regarding his participation at the Australian Open 2022.

In a recent interview, Nadal talked about the importance of mental strength. According to Nadal, mental strength is a very essential part of any sport and should be taken care of from a very young age.

Rafael Nadal speaks on the significance of mental strength

Rafael Nadal had a disappointing 2021 season from his lofty standards. In a recent interview, Nadal gave his takes on the vital subject of mental strength.

WASHINGTON, DC – AUGUST 05: Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates a shot during a match against Lloyd Harris of South Africa on Day 6 during the Citi Open at Rock Creek Tennis Center on August 5, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)

Nadal said, “It is a very important aspect and more in a sport like tennis. It is vital to have a base from a young age. People tell me that I am very strong mentally, but I also suffer, like everyone else and I see it very black. But the essence of sport is that despite seeing something almost impossible, you can achieve it.”

(Quotes have been translated via Google Translate)

Despite playing at the highest level and winning 20 Grand Slam titles, Rafael Nadal confessed that he has suffered mentally. Nadal believes mental fortitude would certainly benefit a player in achieving the impossible.

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Nadal’s comeback to the tennis court

Just a few days ago, Rafael Nadal released some exciting news regarding his much-awaited return. Nadal has started his practice sessions is eyeing his comeback in Abu Dhabi in December. He quoted, “My plan is to play Abu Dhabi in December and then in a tournament before Australia and then the Australian Open. That’s my goal.”

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates match point during his Men’s Singles semi-final match against Matteo Berrettini of Italy on day twelve of the 2019 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 06, 2019 in Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Moreover, he is optimistic about competing at the ‘Happy Slam’. Nadal is currently tied with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic at 20 Grand Slam titles. If all three play at the Australian Open, it would be really fascinating to witness who lifts the record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title.

ALSO READ: Carlos Alcaraz Becomes the Youngest Player to Achieve This Record Since Rafael Nadal

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