Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic predict Rafael Nadal will return to his peak following his injury.
Despite suffering a hip injury that ended his 2023 season, Rafael Nadal is expected to be at the peak of his competitiveness at the Australian Open next month, according to Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz.
Due to a string of ailments that have limited his on-court performances, the 37-year-old expects to retire in 2024. Nevertheless, he has recently increased his preparation, and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic stated that his formidable opponent cannot be written out just yet.
“To be honest, I always expect him to play at his best,” Djokovic stated prior to Alcazar’s 4-6 6-4 6-4 victory over him on Wednesday in an exhibition match held in Riyadh.
They’ve signed him out numerous times, and they’ve done the same with me. However, we have disproved them. He’s not the type of player who will return to the tour to play a few matches at, say, a middling level.
“He is a legend in our sport because he aspires to be the greatest and win championships. He undoubtedly trains and prepares with the goal of winning the Grand Slam.
After watching films of his compatriot practising, Alcaraz—who has lost two of his three matches with Nadal—stated that his friend was at full strength.
“Other players who have trained with Rafa in recent weeks have told me he’s going to get back to his good level. At his very best,” Alcaraz remarked.
