Can Rafael Nadal win his 10th French Open title? While the tournament doesn’t start until late May, many are predicting a strong showing by the Spaniard. Judging by his play this year, he won’t disappoint.
Everyone left Nadal for dead going into the 2017 year. Regardless of winning a gold medal in men’s doubles at the 2016 Olympics, Nadal wasn’t himself at all. For the past year, the former men’s number one overall player couldn’t stay on the court.
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Nadal got knocked out of the 2016 Australian Open in the second round, retired due to injury in the French Open, failed to compete at Wimbledon, and made it to the fourth round of the US Open.
All of these setbacks made it appear as if Nadal was done for. Although this wouldn’t be the case, as he’s experiencing a resurgence in his career.
At the 2017 Australian Open, Nadal would reach his first final since the 2014 French Open. Oddly enough, his opponent was Roger Federer, another tennis legend that many said was past his prime. Nadal lost the match, but it appears he has got his mojo back.
Nadal had impressive showings at Acapulco, losing in the finals to Sam Querry, and Indian Wells and the Miami Open, both of which he lost to Federer in straight sets. Somehow it seemed he had found the fountain of youth. This will make him a favorite at Roland Garros in May.
There is only one question, ” How does Nadal beat Federer?”
Already defeated by his old rival three times this year, Nadal has run into a determined Federer. Of course, we know Nadal’s best tournament is the French Open, and it’s arguably Federer’s worst. Doss this mean Nadal can overthrow his long-time rival?
There is a lot of history between both Federer and Nadal. And while 2017 has been dominated by Federer, Nadal has had his wins against him, especially at the French Open. The two faced each other three consecutive times in the Finals from 2006-08, and then again in 2011. Nadal won all four matchups.
It’s quite apparent that Rafael Nadal has a serious leg up on Federer when it comes to the French Open. However, with the current meetings of the two favoring Federer, Nadal can’t take him lightly. Of course, it’s not even a guarantee that the two will face off against each other.
With Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Stan Wawrinka looming, it’s anyone’s guess as to who will walk away the champion at Roland Garros. While Nadal and Federer are playing some great tennis, the other contenders are just as motivated to win the event.
One thing is certain, Rafael Nadal is proving all his doubters wrong. Even if he doesn’t have a win against Federer this year, the French Open is his playground. No man will beat him there when he’s on his game, and that’s exactly what seems to be happening.
Follow Daniel James Gentile @dgentleman9288