Rafael Nadal has admitted that he had some last-minute doubts about playing in next week’s Rio Olympics.
The former world No.1 hasn’t played a match since the French Open due to a damaged tendon in his wrist. Recently Nadal has been training in his home city of Mallorca before flying to Brazil for the Olympics on Sunday evening.
Arriving in Rio de Janeiro, the nine-time French Open champion was greeted by the Brazilian media. During the rather informal press conference at the Rio de Janeiro International airport, Nadal has candidly admitted that he will not be playing at his best level in the tournament.
“I’m not gonna be at best level in any of categories. I’m coming from two months without competing and little practice.” He said.
“In next days I’ll train here and see what I can do and then decide what’s best, most positive for me and the team”
Nadal’s comments have once again fuelled speculation that he might pull out of the singles competition and focus on the doubles. Spanish radio network La Cadena SER recently reported that 30-year-old could skip the singles draw because of the current state of his wrist.
The injury woes of the 2008 Olympic champion did create doubts in Nadal’s mind about participating in the event. Less than seven days before travelling to Rio, the world No.7 was unsure about playing.
“At least I’m here. Last week I was doubtful [I’d be]. I hope Spanish tennis gets some medal,” the 30-year-old said.
The Olympic Games have always been an event close to Nadal’s heart. Earlier this year he described the four-year sporting spectacle as ‘the most important event in the world of sport.” Unfortunately for the Spaniard, he was unable to defend his gold medal in the 2012 Games due to the lingering effects of a knee injury. Rio will be Nadal’s second Olympic Games after Beijing 2008.
This time round, Nadal also has the privilege of carrying his country’s flag during the opening ceremony, a task that he is relishing.
“As always, I want to enjoy the Games. Whoever loves the sport knows what the Olympic Games mean,” the 2008 gold medallist said.
“The opportunity to participate in the Olympics is really unique and must be enjoyed. I’m really happy to be the being flag bearer.”
The Olympic Tennis competition will start on August 6th at the newly built Olympic Tennis Centre.
