Rafael Nadal of Spain and his former coach, Toni Nadal after the former's victory at the 2017 French Open. (Getty Images)
Rafael Nadal defeated Botic Van de Zandschulp in the third round of the 2022 French Open and now he will face Felix Auger-Aliassime in the fourth round. The Canadian is coached by the 21-time Grand Slam winner’s uncle Toni Nadal in addition to Frederic Fontang.
The fans are waiting with bated breath to watch this match. Toni Nadal helped his nephew achieve a lot of success during his initial days. Now, Toni will have to plot the perfect plan for Felix Auger-Aliassime to succeed against the legendary 13-time French Open champion.
Rafael Nadal had a phenomenal start to 2022 before being held back by injuries. Now he is determined to win his 22nd Grand Slam and double the lead over his contemporaries Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
Nadal said he understands that his uncle is a professional and would have to try all he can to make his student win. However, he also feels it will be difficult for his uncle to want him to lose.
“For me, it’s very simple. He’s my uncle. I don’t think he will be able to want me to lose, without a doubt, but he’s a professional and he’s with another player,” said the fifth-seeded Nadal, who has dealt with chronic foot pain and a rib injury this season but also won the Australian Open in January.
“It’s not a story at all for me. I know what the feelings are that we have between each other. I know he wants the best for me. Now he’s helping another player,” he said. “But honestly, for me, it’s zero problem.”
Toni Nadal and Felix Auger-Aliassime have been working together for over a year. This is the first time Rafael Nadal will face the Canadian since Toni came on board.
The 21-year-old Auger Aliassime revealed he and Toni had a discussion regarding the possibility of facing Rafael Nadal.
“We had the discussion, you know, it was black and white from the first time we started working together we knew it was a possibility that eventually I would play Rafa when I’m working with Toni,” this year’s Montpellier champion said of his match with the 13-time French Open winner. “And actually now he’s present here in this Grand Slam. But I think Toni will watch from a neutral place and enjoy the match.”
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