The upcoming ATP Finals will mark the end of one of the most formidable coaching partnerships in the modern era of tennis.
Toni Nadal will travel to the O2 Arena for the last time as his nephews coach. He is the man responsible for introducing the current world No.1 to the world of tennis at the age of three. Together, Nadal has guided Rafael to 75 ATP titles, including 16 in grand slams. It is rare to see a top player on the men’s tour stick with one person through the majority of their career. Yet, the Nadal’s has shown that it is possible.
“I have been lucky to have had a life in tennis with one of the great performers,” Nadal told Marca.com.
From next year, Nadal will switch his focus to working at his nephews academy in Mallorca instead of travelling on the tour. Meanwhile, Rafael will be mentored by Carlos Moya and Francisco Roig.
“I’ll miss it for sure, but I will also have a great time back in Mallorca.” He said.
“I will also miss training Rafa because we have been doing this for many years, I like training a lot.”
Next week could be a dream ending to the collaboration. At the ATP Finals Rafael will be bidding to win the trophy for the first time. The title has eluded the Spaniard throughout his career, who has settled for runner-up twice in 2010 and 2013. Leading up to this year’s season-ending tournament, a knee problem has derailed preparations. Still, he is set to compete in the event.
Weighing up the chances for the top seed, Nadal admits he is not the favourite. Instead, he has given that honour to his nephews nemesis Roger Federer. Federer will be bidding to win the ATP Finals for the seventh time in his career. He has already won the tournament more times than anybody else in history.
“It is clear [Federer] is the favourite,” he stated. “His level has been very high all year.
“If Rafa can find his best, then we will see. The surface will also have an impact.”
Shortlisted for an ATP award for coach of the year alongside Moya, the 56-year-old remains modest about the impact he has had on one of the most sucessful careers in the Open Era. Explaining that it is the players that are the main driving forces behind who wins these awards.
“All the coaches who have won these awards wouldn’t have if the player hadn’t been skilful.” He concluded.
The ATP Finals will get underway on Sunday.
