"Maybe it should feel sad" - Rafael Nadal talks about the somewhat different French Open
Rafael Nadal has once again found the right perspective. This time on the topic of a lack of spectators on his main tennis court.
by Florian Goosmann
last edit: Oct 02, 2020, 04:54 pm
When Rafael Nadal speaks, one should listen. Nadal may be a global superstar, but he seems more grounded than anyone else. Floods in Mallorca? Nadal lends a hand. His private life? Mostly private. And his view of God and the world? Usually brings you back down to earth.
Since winning the US Open last year, the bull from Manacor had to be asked several times what this victory meant to him and how important the hunt for Federer's Grand Slam record was to him (Federer won 20 majors, Nadal 19). And Nadal painted a beautiful picture. Of course it would be nice to have the record, but that's why he doesn't play tennis. A victory? Feel great at first, but don't change much about his satisfaction a few weeks later. It is not his thing to be jealous just because the neighbor has a bigger house.
Nadal is grateful for tournaments
Also in terms of the French Open 2020, Nadal unpacked the reality hammer again. When asked about his opening win, what it felt like to enter the Court Philippe-Chatrier without the usual crowd, the usual atmosphere, Nadal remained sober.
The place is of course unique for him (Nadal has only lost two matches on it in 16 years, editor's note ), and of course it is sad to have to hold the tournament under these conditions. But: "Maybe it should feel the same way. Maybe it should feel sad because so many people in the world have to suffer."
Ultimately, one can only be grateful to those responsible that this and other tournaments can take place at all. "That they might lose money by hosting these events, which in turn provide jobs for a lot of people who would otherwise stumble, including many players." One can only be grateful to the ATP and the Grand Slams for everything that is done, said the 34-year-old.
Nadal meets the Italian Stefano Travaglia in his third round game on Friday afternoon.
rg2020