French Open finalist Dominic Thiem has more characteristics similar to Rafael Nadal than anybody else on the tour, according to Carlos Moya.
Moya, who has been part of Nadal’s coaching team since December 2016, talked about the world No.8 whilst praising Nadal. The 41-year-old said it is difficult nowadays to find a player as ‘disciplined’ as Nadal in the sport. This year, the Spaniard has won four titles in seven tournaments he has played in.
“I think he is unique,” Moya said of Nadal earlier this week. “I didn’t know players of the past and current generation who have his same characters.
“Today the new generation players are very talented, others have a big serve, others hit well from the baseline.
“But I think what Rafa had for his whole life, his discipline, his winner fighting spirit is difficult to find nowadays.”
Known as the king of clay, only Thiem has managed to defeat Nadal on the surface since 2017. Scoring wins in Rome last year and Madrid this year. Their latest clash occurred at the French Open where the world No.1 prevailed in straight sets to win a historic 11th Roland Garros title.
“I think Thiem is the one who can get the closest to him (in terms of approach to the game), but what Rafa did will be unrepeatable.” Moya explained.
“It’s difficult to tell in what aspect you help him (Nadal). The most important thing is that the player wants to improve, grow up and with this mentality, it’s easier.”
Nadal has previously mentioned his Austrian rival as a future star on the men’s tour. The 24-year-old currently has 10 ATP titles to his name as has been ranked as high as fourth in the world. Thiem is the second youngest player currently in the top 10 after 21-year-old Alexander Zverev.
“He’s a good friend and one of these players the Tour needs and I’m sure you’ll win here in the next couple of years.” Nadal commented about Thiem’s chances of winning the French Open back in June.
Both players will be in action next week at the Canadian Masters in Toronto. Thiem is also playing this week at the Austrian Open in Kitzbühel.
