World No.1 Rafael Nadal is likely to play in the 2020 Olympic Games, according to his coach Carlos Moya.
The 32-year-old is already a two-time Olympian. Winning a gold medal in singles at the 2008 games and a gold medal in the doubles at the 2016 Games. The next Olympics will take place in two years time in Tokyo when Nadal will be 34-years-old. Looking ahead to the event, his coach is confident that he will be participating.
“It’s very feasible. It would be a surprise if Nadal did not make it to the 2020 Olympics.” Moya said during an interview with El Espanol.
“We are talking about a player who 10 years ago was at the top and right now is still there, indeed. The rivals know you, new ones appear, the physical capacities are not the same as those at 20. He has adapted very well.” He later added.
Given the trend of players playing later into their careers, Moya’s claim comes as no surprise. Nadal is the 14th oldest player currently ranked in the top 100. The oldest is 37-year-old Roger Federer. Nevertheless, injury issues have previously halted the Spaniards momentum on the tour. The most recent being a muscular injury that forced him to retire during the quarter-finals of the Australian Open.
“I have always had a lot of faith in him because I know what he is capable of. The only doubt was the injuries, that some would turn him away (from the sport).” Moya explained.
“Seven years ago it was not so normal for this to happen, but now there are many tennis players playing at their best in very late ages. I have always thought the same thing: that tennis would not remove Rafa and it would be Rafa who would retire from tennis.”
Moya Joined Nadal’s team in December 2016. Since then, the 1998 French Open champion has seen him win 11 titles on the ATP World Tour. Including three at grand slam level. There are no signs of that partnership ending any time soon. Speaking about Nadal, Moya admitted that he is relishing his role within the Spaniard’s team.
“I am with a friend, with a person with whom I have shared a lot of time with off the court, with the number one in the world, with a winner of 17 Grand Slam tournaments, someone who is from my country… I try to enjoy what we have because I know that this is not eternal.”
Nadal will be aiming to defend his title at the US Open. In the first round, he will take on David Ferrer in what will be their 31st tour meeting. Nadal current leads their head-to-head 24-6.
“We have a great history together. We have been in the Davis Cup team together, including this year. He’s a good friend.” Nadal said of Ferrer during the US Open draw ceremony on Thursday.
“He has been an amazing player for such a long time. It’s true that he is going through times, but he is still a high level player.”
The US Open will get underway on Monday.
