Former Coach Claims Rafael Nadal’s Vulnerability Makes Grand Slam Win Unlikely in Comeback

Renowned tennis coach, Rick Macci, predicts Rafael Nadal won’t feature as a Grand Slam contender when he returns to the sport next year. 

Macci, a former coach of Serena Williams, noted that players will no longer be “afraid” of Nadal, given the perception of his vulnerability due to mobility issues.

Nadal has been absent from competition since injuring his hip during the 2023 Australian Open. He underwent surgery in June following his initial expectation to be out for a shorter recovery period.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion was compelled to delay his comeback and missed his first French Open since 2004. During a press conference announcing his withdrawal from Roland Garros, Nadal indicated that 2024 would probably be his final season.

The former world No 1 clinched his latest Major title at the 2022 French Open, extending his Roland Garros reign to an unprecedented 14 victories by defeating Casper Ruud in straight sets.

Currently ranked 663rd in ATP Rankings, Nadal garnered his only points from his opening-round victory at this year’s Australian Open over Jack Draper.

It is expected that the Spaniard will make his comeback for next year’s Australian Open, with reports suggesting that he has finalized his travel arrangements for the 2024 season.

READ MORE: When could Rafael Nadal make his return to tennis and what are the realistic expectations?

Macci expressed his belief that Nadal will face challenges upon his return, citing his age as a factor. He does not anticipate the tennis legend to add to his Major tally.

“As you get older, you lose a little mobility, and people aren’t afraid when they know you’re vulnerable,” Macci stated in an interview with Tennis Infinity.

“There’s not much difference between the top guys and the next tier, and when they know they have a chance, that’s a whole different thing, even on clay.

“Before when playing Rafa, he’s 112-3 on clay [at Roland Garros]. The match was over before even starting. You knew you weren’t gonna beat him more than likely.

“So that being said, I wish Rafa all the best, but he’s not at the exact same level he was before, so I don’t think he’s a contender to win a Slam. I think he can be competitive, and I think he’s a rough out for anybody on clay, but it depends on his health.”

Macci has worked with five players who achieved the world No 1 ranking in their careers: Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Maria Sharapova, Jennifer Capriati, and Andy Roddick. He also coached WTA Major champions Mary Pierce, Anastasia Myskina, and Sofia Kenin.

READ MORE: Carlos Alcaraz makes admission about Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal fans’ support against Novak Djokovic.

Reference