Nadal reveals why Federer skipped the clay court season - UBITENNIS

Nadal reveals why Federer skipped the clay court season

By Pawan Atri
3 Min Read

World No. 1 Rafael Nadal has revealed the big reason behind his arch-rival Roger Federer’s decision to skip the European clay court season.

Nadal has made a remarkable comeback from injury, winning a record extending 11th Monte Carlo Masters and the Barcelona Open on Sunday. During his historic title triumph in Barcelona, Nadal claimed his 401st win on the red dirt, his 19th consecutive victory on the surface and took his successive set wins on clay to 46.

However, the Spaniard has achieved all these feats in the absence of Federer, who decided to miss the clay court season ahead of the grass court leg of the tour. Nadal, who has lost his last five matches to the Swiss great was hoping to challenge the reigning Australian Open champion on clay, but was left disappointed by the 36-year-old’s decision.

Nadal told www.madrid-open.com: “I’ve played Federer a few times here. In 2009, 2010 and 2011. It’s practically impossible for Federer to play better on any surface or in any conditions, but it’s also true that clay may suit him a little more at altitude. Matches against him are always difficult, but in Madrid they are a little more so. They were special matches, and having been able to experience them at home is unique. Feeling the support of the whole stadium against your biggest rival is a very special thing.”

“Yes, of course I understand it. He must think that the cost is greater on clay, that he has amazing winning momentum and that on clay he could lose more matches and lose that invincible aura that he has on other surfaces. I think those two factors together have led to him taking that decision. It’s respectable, and as long as it works for him… In 2017 it was perfect, why would he change it?”

While Federer will make his return to action in Stuttgart ahead of Wimbledon in June, Nadal will be playing in the Madrid Masters next week, where he is the defending champion.

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