Rafael Nadal shares thoughts on “machine” Novak Djokovic

Legendary tennis star Rafael Nadal recently described World No.1 1 Novak Djokovic as having a “machine mentality” but also feels that he suffers with his own self-doubts as well.

Nadal featured in a YouTube vlog of retired Formula One racer Nico Rosberg and the duo were seen chit chatting about various topics such as self-doubts, mentality and mental toughness.

I caught up with @RafaelNadal to talk about how self-doubt and mental strengths can affect performance: From a pro athlete to every individual. I hope you can take away some valuable learnings…let me know your thoughts below? 👇

Full conversation: https://t.co/qzFIcttaKP pic.twitter.com/1klsWNAQk7

— Nico Rosberg (@NicoRosberg) November 17, 2021

Talking about his rival Djokovic, Nadal told Rosberg:

“He’s more of a machine in terms of mentality, but I am sure he has his doubts too.

“We have different characters. Both [confidence and doubt] are good, and you need to find your way. That’s my point of view. There’s no one way to have success, or accomplish your dreams. There are different ways, and you need to find your personal one.”

Nadal has been out of action since August because of injury issues, however he has earlier this month announced that he is preparing to make a return at the Abu Dhabi exhibition during the off-season.

Meanwhile, Djokovic has ended the season as World No.1, a record-breaking seventh year-end No.1 finish. Djoker had a brilliant season which saw him win three Grand Slam titles which included Australian Open, Wimbledon and French Open.

Injury issues with Rafael Nadal this year

The 20-time Grand Slam winner suffered an unfortunate foot injury in 2021, which forced him to end his season after the Washington Open.

The Spaniard last played in August and was not able to take part at the US Open as well. However, he feels optimistic now and is hoping that he is fully fit ahead of next year’s Australian Open which is scheduled to start from January 17.

More tennis news

• Roger Federer rules himself out of Australian Open 2022
• Nico Rosberg provides a tour of Rafael Nadal’s yacht
• Garbine Muguruza becomes first Spaniard to win the WTA Finals

Nadal will see it as a perfect opportunity to win his 21st Grand Slam with Djokovic’s participation in doubt. Although he will have tough competition from the young generation, Nadal will be hoping to go there all guns blazing. 

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