Rafael Nadal is one of the favourites for the 2020 Australian Open but already has one eye on a life after retirement
Spanish Tennis ace Rafael Nadal is already a legend thanks to his exploits on the court. The 33-year-old has won 19 Grand Slam titles and is one of the favourites to win the 2020 Australian Open too.
Nadal has come a long way from his humble beginnings back in Manacor, Mallorca.
The Spaniard might be one of the biggest stars ever to have played Tennis, but that hasn’t changed who he is.
Nadal still spends a lot of time in his township and spoke in length about what all he has planned.
The Rafa Nadal Sports Centre provides training to budding Tennis talents from across the region. The Centre also has world-class facilities for all to enjoy while a Rafael Nadal museum is also present.
Nadal was speaking before the Australian Open and hinted that he has to take care of his body and how much he practices:
“I have to find the right balance between practice enough but at the same time to save energy and to save the body to try and play as long as possible.”
Nadal has had injury problems during the latter stages of his career and hinted that he is thinking of a future where he isn’t playing anymore.
The Centre provides him with the opportunity to work with other budding Tennis stars, something that he is willing to help out with:
“I know this type of life, it’s just for a few more time and it’s not forever. Of course, I will be super interested and super happy to try to help the kids in any single way.”
Nadal roaring back to form last year
The 33-year-old had a tough time in 2015 and 2016 with injuries. He didn’t make it past the quarter-finals in any of the Grand Slams in 15 while 16 saw him make the fourth round just once.
However, he has worked on his fitness a lot and won five Grand Slams in the last three years.
Nadal won two Grand Slam titles in 2019 and reached the final of the Australian Open too.
The Spaniard seems ready for more success, even at 33, and it will be difficult to bet against him winning his second Australian Open.
Follow our dedicated Tennis page for instant Tennis news and updates