Nadal Leaves Madrid Open With Positive Outlook, Sets Sights on Rome Tournament
Legendary tennis icon Rafael Nadal left the Madrid Open with a more positive outlook on his fitness, and now plans to compete in the upcoming Rome tournament as he continues his preparations for the French Open.
Despite suffering a straight-sets defeat to the 31st-ranked Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round, the Spanish veteran expressed satisfaction with his overall performance. Nadal called it a “positive week” and was pleased that his body held up well, as he was able to compete in four matches at a high level.
“It’s been a positive week, and I’m happy with the way my body has responded,” Nadal said.
Arriving in Madrid with concerns about his physical condition, Nadal was unsure if he would even be able to participate. However, his emotional attachment to the tournament motivated him to take the court. The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who is in his final year on the tour, had already bid farewell to the Barcelona Open after an early exit.
Looking ahead, Nadal is determined to be competitive in Rome, where he has won a remarkable 10 titles. The Spaniard considers the Italian tournament as another “very special” event in his illustrious career, and he is eager to give himself a chance to play good tennis there.
Preparing for the French Open, which begins on May 26, remains one of Nadal’s primary objectives during this farewell season. The clay-court specialist has won a record 14 titles at Roland Garros, and he is hopeful of adding to his legacy in what could be his last appearance at the prestigious event.
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