Rafael Nadal is enjoying his time away from the Tour following the birth of his first child and remains on course to follow his schedule for the rest of 2022, according to his doctor.
Ángel Ruíz-Cotorro, who is also currently serving as the head of medical services at the Spanish Tennis Association (RFET), has treated Nadal for many years and accompanied him at this year’s French Open. Whilst playing at Roland Garros, Nadal received injections into his foot to help treat his Mueller-Weiss Syndrome. A rare condition that causes intermittent pain in the foot region.
The former world No.1 hasn’t played a match since teaming up with Roger Federer at the Laver Cup in what was the last match of the Swiss Maestro’s career. Currently, he is on leave from the Tour following the birth of his son. Nadal married Maria Francisca Perello in 2019 and they have been together for 17 years.
Providing an update on the tennis star’s current situation, Ruíz-Cotorro told El Comercio that everything is going according to plan.
“Rafa is fine, very happy with his paternity. Once that situation is fulfilled, which logically takes you out of the day-to-day, he is training well and following the schedule for the end of the season,” he said.
At the age of 36, there has been speculation concerning how much longer the king of clay might continue playing. Even more so now considering he has become a father. Despite being hampered by various physical issues throughout his career, he remains one of the top players in the world. This season he has won both the Australian Open and French Open, as well as two other ATP events.
So how has Nadal managed to remain a formidable force in the sport despite suffering numerous physical setbacks over the years?
“I think the secret is hard work, passion for the sport, trying to improve every day, and having outstanding physical tennis qualities,” Ruíz-Cotorro commented. “He is a historic player for our sport and there he continues to give us joy.”
Although it is yet to be officially confirmed, Nadal is set to return to action at the Paris Masters which will start a week on Monday. He will then travel to the ATP Finals in Turin where he is seeking to win the title for the first time.
Nadal’s win-loss for the season currently stands at 38-5, winning eight out of nine matches against top 10 players.
