Following his misfortunes 12 months ago, Rafael Nadal is hoping to make up for it in this week’s Mexican Open.
Last year the 11-time French Open champion flew all the way to Acapulco before he was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to a right hip injury. The Spaniard has been dodged by injury throughout his career, but has still managed to win 80 ATP titles to date. The fourth highest tally in the Open Era on the men’s tour. Towards the end of 2018 he also experienced a problem with his abdomen and underwent minor surgery on his ankle.
“It was a tough moment for me last year, a very tough one. But here I am, excited to be back (in Acapulco) and enjoying these last few days before the start of the tournament in this beautiful place with a great atmosphere.” Nadal said during an interview with atptour.com.
Now his injury woes are behind him, the Spaniard is looking to capitalize on the momentum he generated during last month’s Australian Open. In Melbourne he reached the final before suffering a comprehensive defeat to Novak Djokovic. The Australian Open was Nadal’s first taste of competitive tennis since September.
One would assume that the 32-year-old would be even more motivated than usual this week following his misfortunes in Mexico last year. However, Nadal states that he approaches every tournament with the same mindset no matter what.
“I am always with the right determination to do well.” He explained. “A few times it works, other times it doesn’t. But the determination to do well and the passion at the start of a tournament is with the highest intensity possible.”
Nadal is a two-time winner of the Mexican Open in 2005 and 2013. However, both of those victories occurred before the surface of the tournament changed from clay to hard courts in 2014. He was also runner-up two years ago to Sam Querrey.
Over the years, the world No.2 have formed what he describes as a ‘great connection’ with Mexico. Earlier this month he opened his latest academy in the Costa Mujeres Resort, which is located in Cancun. The facility includes seven illuminated clay courts.
“ I’ve always had a great connection here with all the people in Mexico. I’ve had special moments here. I know very well the country and people. I like the spirit of life that they have.” Said Nadal.
“They are happy, they have a great hospitality and they make me feel like I am at home every time I am here. I am happy to have the first Rafa Nadal tennis academy outside of Mallorca in Costa Mujeres. I’m excited about it.”
Nadal will play his first round match at the Mexican Open on Tuesday against Mischa Zverev. A player who he defeated in straight sets at the same tournament two years ago. Further on in the draw, he could play Nick Kyrgios in the second round followed by either Steve Johnson or Stan Wawrinka.
