Rafael Nadal is on course to be ready for the Rio Olympics, according to his uncle and coach Toni Nadal.
The former world No.1 hasn’t played a match on the tour since the French Open after being sidelined due to a damaged tendon in his wrist. Nadal was scheduled to return to action at this week’s Rogers Cup before pulling out because ‘he wasn’t ready’.
Nadal is currently recovering from the injury in his home town of Mallorca, where he is undergoing a tough fitness regime to get back into shape. The Spaniard is not the only star player training in Mallorca. Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is also working at the same venue ahead of the Olympics. The two men have practice together and the signs are good for Nadal according to his coach Toni.
“We began to intensify his training in order to be ready in time for the first round.” Uncle Toni told Cadena Ser.
“Training with Andy Murray was a really hard first time with another top player and we are happy. Things worked out well.”
In Rio de Janeiro Nadal will be hoping to replicate his heroics from the 2008 Olympics, when he won a gold medal in the men’s singles. This time round, he is scheduled to play in three disciplines (singles, men’s doubles and the mixed doubles). The packed schedule is a big ask for the 30-year-old, who hasn’t played a competitive match for almost two months. Speaking about his nephews current form, coach Toni has admitted that he has his own doubts.
“In Rio, we will start training with the maximum-level players and see how Rafael will respond to the difficulty of the competition.” he said.
“There are doubts about his game. I believe that is normal – these are the same questions we’ve always had after a period of inactivity. Starting with the Olympics is not easy, but if we are lucky in the draw, he can improve step by step.”
Recent rumours have suggested that Nadal may skip the singles competition, but this has not been confirmed by his team. He is expected to travel to Rio on Sunday with fellow player David Ferrer. In the opening ceremony Nadal will carry his country’s flag.
Rafa Nadal was practicing today with Andy Murray in Manacor 💪💪#VamosRafa#AndyMurray
Via @rnadalacademy pic.twitter.com/RC4mwNNVix— Rafa Nadal Morocco (@ReyDelTenis_) 27 July 2016
